Lyla Lindsey
Allergies are an overreaction by the body's immune system to a normally harmless substance, and they can range from mild headaches and sinus problems to life-threatening anaphylaxis. In Australia, common allergies include food, latex, pollen, insects, and pets. To manage allergies, Australians can turn to Allergy & Anaphylaxis Australia (A&AA), a national support organisation that provides resources such as training devices, brochures, and videos. Venom immunotherapy (VIT) is also available for insect allergies, and antihistamines can be purchased over the counter to treat allergic reactions.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Common allergens | Pollen, insects, food, latex, pets |
| Food allergies | Affect 3.7 million Australians; common in children under 5 |
| Pet allergies | Rashes, hives, sneezing, coughing, wheezing, itchy eyes |
| Latex allergies | Rashes, swelling, hives, wheezing, coughing, diarrhea, vomiting |
| Allergic conjunctivitis | Redness in both eyes, itching, burning, watery eyes, swollen eyelids |
| Eczema | Affects about 9% of infants up to 12 months; managed with immunomodulation and other therapies |
| Allergic rhinitis | Hay fever; treated with antihistamines, saline nasal sprays, intranasal corticosteroid sprays |
| Insect allergies | Venom immunotherapy (VIT) or desensitisation can reduce severity and prevent anaphylaxis |
| Allergy treatments | Antihistamines (sedating and non-sedating), saline nasal sprays, adrenaline autoinjectors (Epipen or Anapen) |
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What You'll Learn
Venom immunotherapy for insect allergies
Venom immunotherapy (VIT) is a treatment option for insect allergies. It is designed to reduce the risk of severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) to insect venom. It is a long-term treatment, usually taking at least three to five years to complete. During this time, patients receive regular injections of gradually increasing doses of commercially available insect venom preparations. This process helps to change the way the immune system reacts to the venom, reducing the severity of allergic reactions over time.
VIT is available in Australia and New Zealand for allergies to various insect venoms, including honeybees, paper wasps, yellow jackets, jack jumper ants, and fire ants. It is important to identify the specific insect causing the allergy, as VIT is tailored to the individual's needs. VIT is typically initiated by a clinical immunology/allergy specialist and can be continued at a local medical centre.
The treatment process for VIT consists of two phases: the initiation phase and the maintenance phase. During the initiation phase, patients receive injections of increasing doses of venom under the guidance of an allergy specialist until the optimal dose is reached. This phase often takes place in a hospital setting to monitor for any adverse reactions. The maintenance phase involves regular injections, usually given monthly, of a constant dose. These injections can be administered in a hospital or general practice setting.
It is recommended that individuals undergoing VIT carry an adrenaline (epinephrine) injector, such as an Anapen® or EpiPen®, in case of an allergic reaction. VIT is generally not recommended for those with only large localized reactions to insect stings (swelling/rash) without other symptoms. There is a small risk of anaphylaxis during VIT injections, so patients are advised to remain under medical supervision for 45-60 minutes after each injection.
Allergen extracts for insect venoms used in VIT are subsidised by the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) in Australia, making the treatment more accessible and affordable for those who need it.
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Allergen immunotherapy for aeroallergens
Allergen immunotherapy, also known as AIT or desensitisation, is a treatment method that changes the way the body's immune system reacts to allergens. It is not a temporary solution to reduce symptoms but rather a long-term treatment to prevent or reduce allergies. This form of immunotherapy involves introducing tiny doses of the allergen to the body over several years, allowing the body to get used to the allergen and learn not to react to it.
AIT is available to treat allergic rhinitis (hay fever) that has not responded well to intranasal corticosteroid nasal spray (INCS) treatment. It is also used to treat allergies to insect stings, asthma, and sometimes eczema. It is not currently used in Australia to treat food allergies due to limited evidence for its effectiveness. However, research is ongoing, and AIT has been found to reduce the chance of someone having a severe reaction to stinging insects. Almost everyone with hay fever who undergoes immunotherapy will experience an improvement in their symptoms and a better quality of life.
Allergen immunotherapy is administered in various forms, including injections under the skin, oral tablets, oral sprays, and sublingual tablets (under the tongue). Injections are typically started at a very low dose and gradually increased over 3 to 6 months until a maintenance dose is reached. This is then administered monthly under medical supervision, with patients observed for 30-45 minutes post-injection. Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) is a newer treatment that has become more effective over the past decade, with tablets taken daily.
The greatest risk of AIT is a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), although this is rare. Patients are advised to remain at the doctor's surgery for at least 30 minutes after injection and avoid exercise for at least three hours. Localised side effects such as irritation of the tongue, mouth, and throat may occur, and oral antihistamines can be used to relieve symptoms.
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Managing pet allergies
Identify the Allergen
It is important to determine what specific substance triggers your allergy. While many people assume it is an animal's fur, the main culprits are often pet dander (dead skin cells) and saliva. An allergist can perform a simple skin-prick test to identify the exact allergen, helping you understand your allergy and make informed decisions about pet ownership.
Choose Hypoallergenic Pets
If you are considering getting a pet and are concerned about allergies, opt for hypoallergenic breeds. Certain dog breeds, such as the Schnauzer, Poodle, and Portuguese Water Dog, shed less dander and drool, making them suitable for milder allergies. Similarly, some cat breeds, like the Siberian, Balinese, and Cornish Rex, are also considered hypoallergenic.
Maintain a Clean Environment
Regular cleaning and vacuuming are essential to minimising allergens in your home. Use high-efficiency vacuum cleaners with HEPA filters to effectively remove pet hair and dander from carpets, rugs, and furniture. Wash bedding, pet accessories, and your pet regularly to reduce allergen buildup. Keeping your pet well-groomed and brushed can also help reduce shedding.
Create Pet-Free Zones
Restrict pets' access to certain areas, particularly bedrooms and rooms with carpets or upholstered furniture. Pet allergens can linger in these spaces, exacerbating allergy symptoms. Creating pet-free zones helps reduce allergen exposure and provides relief to allergy sufferers.
Air Purifiers and Humidifiers
Investing in a high-quality air purifier, such as the VBreathe EnviroGuard Pro X, can significantly improve indoor air quality. Air purifiers trap and neutralise airborne allergens, pet dander, and harmful pathogens, creating a healthier environment for both allergy sufferers and pets. Additionally, using a humidifier can help maintain proper humidity levels, as dry air can worsen allergy symptoms.
Medical Treatments
For severe allergies, medical treatments are available to help manage symptoms. Allergen immunotherapy, also known as desensitisation, is a long-term treatment option offered by immunologists. Over time, it helps reduce sensitivity to allergens. Other treatments include intranasal corticosteroid sprays and antihistamines, which can provide relief from allergy symptoms.
By following these guidelines, individuals with pet allergies can effectively manage their symptoms and enjoy the companionship of their furry friends. It is important to note that individual experiences may vary, and consulting with medical professionals and allergists is always recommended for personalised advice and treatment plans.
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Food allergies
The most common allergenic foods in Australia include eggs, milk, peanuts, tree nuts, sesame, wheat, soy, fish, and seafood. Allergies to these foods tend to develop in infancy or early childhood and can often persist into adulthood. Young children with food allergies are frequently allergic to multiple foods, but this usually reduces to one or two food allergies by the age of five. While most children outgrow allergies to milk, eggs, soy, and wheat, allergies to peanuts, tree nuts, and seafood often continue into adulthood.
The signs and symptoms of a food allergy typically occur soon after consuming the food, within two hours. Allergic reactions can vary from mild to moderate to severe and may progress rapidly to anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening reaction that affects the whole body and requires immediate treatment with an adrenaline (epinephrine) injector, such as an EpiPen®. While deaths from food allergies are rare in Australia, they are almost always preventable, and the most common cause of death is the delay in administering adrenaline.
To manage food allergies, individuals should seek a proper diagnosis from a qualified medical practitioner and avoid the identified allergen. Allergy & Anaphylaxis Australia provides resources such as food allergen cards to help individuals identify and avoid common allergens. Additionally, individuals should learn to read labels and plan ahead for eating in different environments. In cases of mild to moderate food allergies, it is important to be vigilant as anaphylaxis can occur without prior mild or moderate symptoms.
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Allergic conjunctivitis
People with allergic conjunctivitis may experience:
- Redness in both eyes
- Itching and burning of the eye and the surrounding area
- Watery eyes
- Painful eyes in direct sunlight
- Swollen eyelids
Treatment Options
The treatment for allergic conjunctivitis depends on the severity of the symptoms. Mild to moderate symptoms usually respond well to simple home treatments such as bathing the eyes with cold water, using ice packs, and cold water compresses. Non-medicated eye drops can also help lubricate the eyes and gently flush allergens from the surface.
More severe symptoms may require medication. Medical treatments include:
- Topical medications (eye drops) that directly treat the symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis. These are available in many different types, including anti-inflammatory eye drops and drops to decrease the swelling of blood vessels in the eyes.
- Antihistamine eye drops are effective but should not be used for longer than 6 weeks without medical advice.
- Antihistamine tablets or syrups can help when it is difficult to avoid the allergen, although they may cause side effects such as dryness of the eyes, nose, and mouth, and blurred vision.
- Steroid eye drops can effectively relieve symptoms quickly but are associated with potential eye-related side effects and should only be used under medical supervision as a short-term treatment.
- Allergen immunotherapy for specific allergens may benefit people with persistent and severe allergic conjunctivitis, although relief of symptoms will not happen immediately.
- For more serious forms of allergic eye disease, specialist eye doctors and allergy specialists should be consulted, and treatment may include intranasal corticosteroid sprays and antihistamines.
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Frequently asked questions
Some common allergies in Australia include food allergies, insect allergies, pet allergies, pollen allergies, and latex allergies.
Some common treatments for allergies in Australia include antihistamines, nasal sprays, eye drops, and immunotherapy.
Yes, Allergy and Anaphylaxis Australia is a national support organisation dedicated to helping individuals and carers manage allergy and anaphylaxis.
If you think you have a food allergy, you should talk to your doctor before taking any medication or excluding certain foods from your diet.
Yes, the AirRater app can help you track your hay fever symptoms and monitor allergens in your surroundings.
