Allergies are widespread medical conditions, but their causes, symptoms, diagnostic methods, and treatment options can differ significantly. In immune complex-mediated allergies, antibodies interact with allergens, forming complexes that deposit throughout the body. A common example is contact allergies, such as those caused by nickel in jewelry. In general, four types of allergies include anaphylaxis, cytotoxic, immune complex-mediated, and contact dermatitis. While skin and respiratory reactions are the most common, gastrointestinal symptoms can also arise, though less frequently.
Diagnosing allergies starts with a comprehensive medical history to pinpoint potential allergens, we encounter through cosmetics, detergents, and food. Identifying the specific allergen is crucial for managing symptoms and minimizing exposure.
Traditional allergy testing, such as the skin prick test, introduces allergens to the skin to assess reactions. However, this method has limitations, including cross-reactivity and subjectivity. While blood tests for detecting IgE antibodies to specific allergens are common, they are obsolete. A more advanced method, Allergenius, identifies proteins in foods, offering more precise results. For example, a child with a whey protein allergy can benefit from food preparation adjustments.
Allergy symptoms may include skin reactions, respiratory issues, and swelling, particularly in the lips or eyes. An allergic reaction can be life-threatening in severe cases, and an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen) may be required for emergencies. The key to managing allergies lies in avoiding allergens and seeking medical advice, as their severity and treatment approaches differ.
In an exclusive conversation with The Interview World, Dr. Arjun Dang, CEO of Dr. Dangs Lab, discusses the critical distinctions between allergies and intolerances. He explores the most common allergic conditions in India, highlights the role of the gut microbiome in regulating allergies and inflammation, and addresses public awareness of allergies and the importance of early medical intervention. Here are the key takeaways from his insightful conversation.
Q: What are the key differences between allergies and intolerances, and what recent studies are helping to define these distinctions?
A: Let me explain the key distinction between allergies and intolerances. Allergies generally provoke an immediate reaction. Within minutes of exposure to food or respiratory allergens, they can aggravate. Immunoglobulin E (IgE), a specific antibody, mediates these reactions. In contrast, food intolerances are exclusively linked to certain food items, but the response is more delayed and not IgE-mediated. Unlike allergies, intolerances often manifest with digestive symptoms like bloating, gastritis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), constipation, or chronic inflammation. Food intolerances primarily affect the gut and cause longer-lasting discomfort than allergies.
Q: What are the most common allergies in India, particularly concerning the local demographics?
A: Food allergies are increasingly common in the pediatric population, a crucial period when the immune system is still developing and strengthening. As a result, children are more susceptible to developing allergies. Many children are also atopic, meaning they inherit a genetic predisposition to allergies from one or both parents or ancestors, further increasing the prevalence of allergic conditions.
In recent years, however, the rise in food allergies has been significantly influenced by disruptions in the gut microbiome. Emerging research underscores the connection between gut health and immune function, showing that an imbalanced microbiome can lead to a higher incidence of food intolerances. This growing body of evidence suggests that poor gut health is a key factor driving the increased prevalence of food allergies in children.
Q: How does the gut microbiome influence the regulation of allergies and inflammation?
A: Recent research has highlighted the critical role of the gut microbiome as the body’s “battery,” powering essential functions and maintaining overall health. When this microbiome is disrupted by factors such as poor diet, stress, or environmental toxins, inflammation rises. Heightened inflammation can trigger or worsen a variety of health issues, including polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), autoimmune diseases, and chronic fatigue syndrome. Furthermore, an imbalanced gut microbiome can also trigger other chronic conditions, making it clear that maintaining gut health is crucial for preventing a wide range of inflammatory-related diseases.
Q: Antacids are commonly used to treat bloating and gut infections. Are they safe for long-term use?
A: Long-term use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or antacids is not recommended without medical supervision. These medications should only be taken as necessary and under the guidance of a doctor. We must understand that acidity and gastritis can stem from multiple underlying factors, including lifestyle habits, infections, or other medical conditions. When you experience these symptoms, the first step your doctor will take is to identify the root cause through a thorough diagnosis. Based on that, they will recommend a tailored treatment plan. This approach ensures that you don’t depend on PPIs or antacids for long, addressing the issue at its source.
Q: How aware are people of allergies today, and do they recognize the importance of seeking early treatment?
A: As I previously mentioned, allergy testing becomes essential when you experience reactions involving your skin, breathing, or digestive system, and the cause remains unclear. For instance, if you’re bitten by an insect outdoors and subsequently have an allergic reaction, the reason is fairly obvious, and the diagnosis is straightforward. However, in cases where symptoms are more ambiguous—such as reactions triggered by certain foods but not others—and you suspect an allergy, the situation becomes more complex.
In such cases, it is crucial to conduct an allergy test to pinpoint the exact trigger. One highly effective test we use is Allergenius, which detects immediate, IgE-mediated allergies. This advanced test helps us identify allergens that might be causing subtle or unclear reactions, providing clarity and enabling us to develop a targeted treatment plan. Allergy testing in these cases is an invaluable tool for accurate diagnosis and management.
