Allergy Overview

Which type of allergies do non-prescription remedies effectively treat?

Why are topical antihistamines not recommended despite their theoretical usefulness?

What is a non-prescription remedy unable to effectively treat?

What is the main issue with using topical antihistamines for allergic itch?

Which of the following is NOT mentioned as an efficacy issue of non-prescription remedies for allergies?

What role do lymphocytes play in the development of allergies?

Which of the following situations would NOT spontaneously resolve with age, based on the provided information?

Which cells are involved in the non-antigen-specific immune response in allergies?

What happens when the immune system fails to regulate itself during an allergic reaction?

The inflammatory process in allergies is initiated after the recognition of which type of substances?

What is the primary objective of most allergy treatments?

Allergy refers to any abnormal reaction or hypersensitivity to substances to which one is exposed.
Examples of well-known allergies include pollen, cosmetic agents, and nickel.

True allergies are caused by substances that the body recognizes as foreign.
Upon molecular recognition, an inflammatory process and further production of antibodies are initiated by activated lymphocytes.
Lymphocytes and antibodies cooperate with non-antigen-specific cells, such as phagocytes, to eliminate the antigens.
In normal circumstances, the immune system regulates itself to generate a response appropriate for the antigen encountered.
In allergies, the control exerted by the immune system breaks down, initiating abnormal reactions.

Excessive rhinorrhoea, itch, and inflammation of the conjunctival and nasal tissues are observed in hay-fever.

Allergies can resolve spontaneously, for example, hay-fever improves with age.
In some cases, continuous avoidance of exposure to the allergen is necessary.
Treatment is aimed at suppressing disturbing symptoms.
Non-prescription remedies are available for the symptomatic relief of certain allergies, such as hay-fever and insect stings, but not for more serious allergies like allergic asthma.