Allergies: When the Immune System Becomes a Source of Discomfort

Allergies are among the most common and bothersome health conditions. Their triggers surround us everywhere—from dust and perfumes to food and air. But what exactly are allergies? Why do some people develop them while others don't? How can we distinguish them from the common cold? And is it possible to prevent them or even achieve full recovery through immunotherapy?اضافة اعلان
To answer these questions and more, we spoke with Dr. Nour Joradatli, Consultant in ENT and Allergy at Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City, and a German board-certified allergist with over 16 years of experience in the field.



What Are Allergies?
Dr. Nour explains:
“Allergies are abnormal immune reactions to certain substances in the environment—substances that are typically harmless to most people, such as dust, pollen, animal dander, certain foods, or medications.”
She adds:
“When someone with allergies is exposed to these substances, their body produces antibodies called IgE, which bind to specific cells in the nose, skin, or lungs. This process leads to the release of chemicals like histamine, which causes allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, coughing, skin eczema, or even shortness of breath.”

Types of Allergies: Perennial vs. Seasonal
When asked about the different types of allergies and how to manage them, Dr. Nour explains that allergies are mainly classified into two types: perennial (chronic) and seasonal allergies.
Perennial allergies last year-round and are usually caused by indoor allergens like dust mites, pet dander, and mold. Common symptoms include nasal congestion, chronic coughing, and skin eczema.
To manage them, she advises:
Washing bedding weekly in hot water (60–90°C)
Using anti-allergy protective covers
Maintaining indoor humidity below 50%
Avoiding carpets and heavy curtains
Seasonal allergies occur during specific times of the year, usually triggered by pollen from trees or grasses. Symptoms—like sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes or nose—often appear in spring and fall and may sometimes lead to breathing difficulties.
Dr. Nour emphasizes early preventive treatment for seasonal allergies. Patients should not wait for symptoms to appear. She recommends starting nasal or chest sprays and antihistamines at least two weeks before allergy season to reduce severity and avoid emergency situations.
She also warns against outdoor activities in the fall—particularly in the wild—due to exposure to plant pollens like ranth. She suggests:
Wearing masks (even standard medical ones)
Keeping car windows closed in rural or desert areas
She stresses the importance of strict adherence to treatment plans, advising patients not to stop medication even if symptoms improve. Seasonal allergies can last for weeks, and interrupting treatment can lead to symptom recurrence.
To minimize symptoms, she also recommends:
Keeping the home clean
Washing the face, eyes, and nose after being outside
Regularly cleaning air conditioning and purifier filters

Can Allergies Be Accurately Diagnosed?
“Yes, diagnosis is key,” says Dr. Nour.
Many people treat allergy symptoms as if they were common colds, which delays proper treatment.
Diagnosis involves:
Taking a detailed medical history
Skin prick testing with small amounts of allergens
Advanced blood tests to measure IgE levels and reaction severity

Treatment: Medication, Prevention, and Immunotherapy
Dr. Nour explains that allergy treatment involves several approaches:
Avoiding allergens as much as possible
Using appropriate medications
Allergen immunotherapy, which she describes as a breakthrough in allergy treatment
Immunotherapy can be administered either sublingually (under the tongue) or via subcutaneous injections. The goal is to “train” the immune system to tolerate the allergen without triggering a reaction.
It involves giving carefully measured doses over 3 to 5 years, leading to gradual immune acceptance. Dr. Nour notes that this method has shown high effectiveness and is considered the closest thing to a “cure” for allergies—especially for unavoidable triggers like pollen or dust.
Side effects are usually mild (sneezing, itching), but rare cases of anaphylaxis may occur, which is why it's done under medical supervision.
Other commonly used medications include:
Antihistamines, effective for reducing sneezing, itching, and runny nose. Some older types may cause drowsiness, so they're better taken at night.
Inhalers and bronchodilators like Salbutamol, which may cause slight tremors or increased heart rate with overuse
Corticosteroids (sprays or topical), which are safe when used as inhalers because they don't enter the bloodstream in large amounts—unlike the high-dose oral or injected steroids used in the past
She adds that modern medical awareness has helped dispel myths about corticosteroids, and that correct usage brings major benefits with minimal risks.

A Message of Awareness
Dr. Nour concludes with a strong message:
“Public awareness and early treatment can completely change an allergy patient’s life. Allergies don’t have to be a barrier to living a normal, active life. With accurate diagnosis and the right treatment, allergies can be managed, allowing patients to enjoy a safe and comfortable life.”




5 Key Questions… Answered
1. Can allergies suddenly develop in adulthood?
Yes. Allergies can develop at any age, even in adults with no prior history. This may result from environmental changes, frequent allergen exposure, or immune system shifts.
2. Is there a link between psychological stress and allergies?
Stress doesn’t directly cause allergies, but it can worsen symptoms by weakening the immune system and increasing the release of chemicals that trigger allergic reactions.
3. Can allergies affect sleep quality?
Absolutely. Nasal and respiratory allergies can cause congestion, nighttime coughing, or shortness of breath, leading to insomnia or disrupted sleep. Regular symptom management greatly improves sleep quality.
4. What’s the difference between a food allergy and food intolerance?
A food allergy is a sudden and severe immune reaction that can be life-threatening.
Food intolerance is a digestive issue that doesn’t involve the immune system, and symptoms are usually milder and gradual.
5. Are there natural or alternative treatments that relieve allergy symptoms?
Some people use natural remedies like local honey or herbal steam inhalation and opt for natural air filters and fragrance-free cleaners. However, it’s essential to consult a doctor first, especially for severe allergies.