The Myths and Truths About Allergies

Allergies are reactions of the immune system to substances in our surroundings that most people do not notice at all.
Although allergies are extremely common, many beliefs about them are incorrect or not supported by medical evidence.
These are some of the most widespread myths and the facts behind them.

An allergy always develops after the first exposure to an allergen
This is not true.
When a rash or nasal symptoms appear, people often look for a new food, medication, or detergent to blame.
In reality, an allergic reaction is usually acquired after repeated exposure.
Several exposures to the same substance are often needed before symptoms appear.
For example, repeated use of certain antibiotics can eventually trigger an allergic reaction.

To prevent food allergies in children, it is best to avoid exposing them to many foods until they grow older This is incorrect.
Medical research shows the opposite.
Early and repeated exposure to allergenic foods actually reduces the risk of developing food allergies, as long as the foods are introduced in an age appropriate way.

A child with a food allergy must not touch or even smell the allergenic food Not true.
Severe reactions to food allergens almost always occur only after eating them.
Touching the food may cause mild local irritation, but this is not dangerous.
Even children with allergies to milk, eggs, or peanuts can safely be around others eating these foods, as long as they do not put the allergenic food into their mouth.
Rarely, a child with a fish allergy may react to cooking vapors, but such cases are uncommon.

A food allergy never goes away
This is not accurate.
Most children outgrow milk allergies, and many outgrow egg allergies.
Recovery is less common with sesame and more difficult with peanuts and tree nuts.
Improvement usually occurs in early childhood.

Regular follow-up with an allergist, including periodic skin testing, can help determine whether an allergy has resolved.
Over the past decade and a half, new treatments have emerged that can raise the reaction threshold, reduce the risk of severe reactions, and in some cases allow people to reintroduce the food entirely.
A penicillin allergy lasts for life

This is false.
Many people who were told in childhood that they are allergic to penicillin are no longer allergic as adults. Evaluation in an allergy clinic can prevent unnecessary avoidance of effective medications.
It is impossible to reduce allergic sensitivity to dust mites
Not true.
Dust mites, which live in bedding, carpets, and upholstered furniture, can cause persistent nasal symptoms and worsen asthma.

However, allergists can offer a series of injections containing small amounts of the allergen.
These treatments can significantly reduce symptoms and in many cases even eliminate allergic rhinitis. G6PD deficiency is an allergy Incorrect.
Although people with this deficiency must avoid certain foods and medications, the condition is not an allergic reaction.

It is a genetic enzyme deficiency affecting red blood cells.
A mild reaction to a bee sting means the next sting could be deadly This is not true.
The severity of future reactions can be predicted by previous ones.
Someone who has had only a local skin reaction is not at high risk for a systemic reaction later.

However, anyone who has experienced symptoms involving other body systems such as abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, or fainting is at higher risk and should be evaluated by an allergist for further guidance, including whether to carry an epinephrine auto-injector.
If I am allergic to iodine, I must avoid fish and seaweed Incorrect.
Iodine is a natural element found in the human body.

Some people react to contrast agents used in medical imaging, which contain iodine, but this does not mean they are allergic to iodinated foods or disinfectants.
An iodine allergy is not the same as a fish allergy.

Many people have an allergy to lactose
Not true.
There is no such thing as a lactose allergy.
intolerance for Lactose caused by difficulty breaking down the milk sugar lactose.
A milk allergy is an immune reaction to milk proteins, not to lactose.

Milk causes mucus
This is a myth.
Runny nose and congestion are usually caused by inhaled allergens such as dust mites, animal dander, or pollen.
Milk does not create mucus and is not responsible for allergic nasal symptoms.

There is nothing to do during a severe allergic attack except call an ambulance
This is incorrect.
Calling emergency services is essential, but the life-saving treatment in severe allergic reactions is epinephrine.
For mild reactions, antihistamines may help, but if symptoms are more serious even if only one body system is affected, such as severe stomach pain or breathing difficulty epinephrine should be given immediately.
It is safe even if used unnecessarily, and in any case of doubt, it should be administered without delay.
If symptoms do not improve quickly, a second dose may be required.