Atopy

Atopy (atopic dermatitis) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that occurs against the background of a genetically determined increased sensitivity to environmental allergens.

The main signs of atopy:

1. Itching of the skin, especially in the face, neck, extensor surfaces of the extremities.

2. Redness and swelling of the skin.

3. Small blisters, weeping, crusts.

4. Increased symptoms due to stress, fatigue, infections.

5. Chronic relapsing course with remissions and exacerbations.

6. Often combined with other allergic diseases (allergic rhinitis, bronchial asthma, etc.).

7. It usually appears in early childhood.

Atopy is a genetically determined increased sensitivity to allergens, leading to the development of allergic reactions. People with atopy are prone to allergic diseases such as atopic dermatitis, allergic rhinitis, and bronchial asthma. The cause is disturbances in the immune system. Treatment of atopy is aimed at relieving symptoms and eliminating contact with triggering allergens.

Allergic rhinitis is a major problem for the patient and the doctor. Of all allergic human diseases, it is the allergy to this type of allergen that is called atopic rhinitis (atopic dermatitis or bronchial asthma), which is due to the distinctive features of the immune response. In atopic diseases, the disease often begins before the age of 3, when a specific reaction background is formed. However, the onset of the disease can occur at an older age. The peak of the disease occurs at the age of 5–17 years with a difference of 3 years - this is a unique feature and a sign of atopy as an immune category of the disease.

Atopy: Predisposition to allergic reactions

Introduction:
Atopy is a type of allergy characterized by a congenital or constitutional predisposition to the development of allergic reactions in humans. People suffering from atopy are susceptible to increased sensitivity to various allergens, such as pollen granules, house dust, foods and other substances that can cause allergic symptoms and discomfort. Atopy can manifest itself in various forms, including hay fever, allergic asthma and atopic eczema.

Signs of atopy:
One of the main signs of atopy is atonic status (atopic), which indicates the presence of allergic reactions in an individual. People with atopic status have elevated levels of immunoglobulin E (IgE) in the blood, which is a characteristic indicator of an allergic reaction. This status can be inherited and passed down genetic lines.

Manifestations of atopy:
Atopy can manifest itself in various forms and symptoms, depending on contact with the allergen. Some of the most common forms of atopic reactions include:

1. Hay fever: This is an allergic disease caused by pollen that results in symptoms such as runny nose, itchy eyes, sneezing and difficulty breathing.

2. Allergic asthma: This is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways, which is characterized by attacks of shortness of breath, whistling in the chest and coughing.

3. Atopic eczema (dermatitis): This is a skin condition characterized by dry, itchy, red and rashes on the skin.

Influencing factors:
The development of atopy is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Heredity plays an important role in the occurrence of atopic predisposition. If one or both parents have atopy, the likelihood of their offspring developing allergic reactions increases significantly. In addition, environmental factors such as air pollution, secondhand smoke, changes in diet and hyperhygienic conditions can also contribute to the development of atopy.

Diagnosis and treatment:
Diagnosis of atopy is based on a physical examination, the patient's medical history, and the results of allergy tests. Treatment of atopy is aimed at relieving symptoms and preventing allergic reactions. This may include the use of antihistamines to relieve itching and pink rashes, anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce inflammation, the use of topical products to moisturize the skin and reduce dryness, and immunotherapy to reduce sensitivity to allergens.

Preventive measures:
There are some preventive measures that can help manage atopy and reduce the risk of allergic reactions. These include:

1. Avoid contact with known allergens: Patients with atopy should try to avoid contact with known allergens that cause reactions in them. For example, if pollen granules cause hay fever, it is recommended to avoid being outside during the plant's peak flowering season.

2. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: It is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle to strengthen your immune system and reduce the risk of developing allergic reactions. This includes regular physical activity, healthy eating, adequate sleep and stress management.

3. Maintain good hygiene: Although hyperhygienic conditions can contribute to the development of atopy, it is still important to maintain basic hygiene to prevent infections and worsening symptoms. Regular hand washing, a clean home, and using hypoallergenic skin care products can be helpful.

Conclusion:
Atopy is a type of allergy characterized by a congenital or constitutional predisposition to the development of allergic reactions upon contact with allergens. People with atopic status have elevated IgE levels and are susceptible to various forms of atopic reactions such as hay fever, allergic asthma and atopic eczema. Diagnosis of atopy includes a physical examination and allergy tests, and treatment is aimed at relieving symptoms and preventing allergic reactions. Following preventive measures, such as avoiding allergens and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, can also help manage atopy and reduce the risk of developing atopy.