An allergy is an exaggerated immune system response to a substance (allergen/antigen) that is
generally harmless to most people. Allergy per say is not a disease but exaggerated immune
response can cause various pathological conditions like allergic rhinitis, bronchial asthma, atopic
dermatitis, allergic conjunctivitis, food allergy and even anaphylaxis in some cases. Allergen/antigen
can be pollen, food, animal dander, or insect venom.
Allergic rhinitis: Is an allergic reaction that affects the nasal passages. It occurs when the immune
system overreacts to airborne allergens, such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or fungus (Mold).
When these allergens are inhaled, they trigger an immune response that causes inflammation of the
nasal lining. Symptoms include sneezing, nasal congestion, running or itchy nose, watery eyes,
coughing or postnasal drip. Skin prick test (Allergy skin test) and blood allergy test (Specific IgE
antibodies) aids in diagnosis. Treatment includes avoidance of allergy, anti-allergy medications, nasal
spray, breathing exercises (Pranayama) and immunotherapy.
Bronchial asthma: Asthma can be chronic disease of the airways characterized by recurring episodes
of wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness, and coughing. These symptoms are caused by various
triggers, such as allergens, pollution, and respiratory infections. Asthma can have genetic
predisposition i.e it can run through the families. Asthma can be monitored by clinical evaluation,
allergy skin testing, pulmonary function tests (PFT) such as peak flow meter and spirometry. It is
generally well controlled with antiallergic medications, inhalational treatment, life style
modifications and breathing exercises including yoga. Immunotherapy and monoclonal antibodies
(Biologicals in asthma) are required in fewer cases for symptom control. (Key words: Asthma,
Allergy, PFT, Allergy skin testing, immunotherapy)
Skin prick test (Allergy test): Is a diagnostic procedure used to identify specific allergens that cause
an allergic reaction in a person. By introducing small amounts of allergens to the skin, the test can
help pinpoint substances that trigger allergic reactions. This information is valuable for creating an
effective allergy management and treatment plan including immunotherapy. Skin allergy tests are
generally safe, with minimal risk. Mild side effects, such as itching, redness, or mild swelling, are
common at the test site but typically resolve within a few hours. Rarely, a person may experience a
more intense reaction, so these tests are usually conducted under medical supervision.
Blood allergy test: Is a diagnostic tool used to measure the presence of specific antibodies, especially
immunoglobulin E (IgE), in response to allergens. This test is particularly helpful for people who
cannot undergo skin testing due to skin conditions, medication interference, or risk of severe
allergic reactions.
Spirometry: is a common pulmonary function test that measures how much air a person can inhale
and exhale, as well as how quickly they can exhale. During the test, a person breathes into a device
called a spirometer, which records the amount and rate of air breathed in and out over a specific
time. Spirometry helps diagnose conditions that affect breathing, such as asthma, chronic obstructive
pulmonary disease (COPD), and other lung disorders. It can also monitor lung function over time and
evaluate treatment effectiveness.
Treatment : Includes avoidance of allergy, anti-allergy medications, nasal spray, inhaled or nebulized
medications, surgeries related to nasal tract, life style modifications including pranayama,
immunotherapy.