Yoga

The tai chi and chi kung can be useful for combating stress, an aggravating factor in many allergies. Operate similarly to conventional medical therapy. The shiatsu massage can help you strengthen the lymphatic and immune systems. It is beneficial in the treatment of respiratory problems.

Osteopathy

It may be helpful in relieving symptoms of asthma and sinusitis and contributes to the overall balance.

WHERE DO

Macrobiotic Institute, Lisbon.

Tel: 21 324 22 90. Dietary guidance: € 100-1. ª consultation € 75 as follows.

Acupuncture: from € 35.

Shiatsu: € 45/sessão.

Chi kung: € 35/month 2x per week.

Tai chi: 2x € 50 per week.

Centre Osteopathy and Naturopathy Jorge Indiveri, Oeiras.

Tel: 21 442 3563. First appointment € 60. Following from € 50.

Acupuncture. Clinical Peter Choy, Lisbon.

Tel: 21 848 77 97/Porto: 22 606 35 77/Coimbra: 239 837 370. First appointment € 60 to € 30 as follows.

Acupuncture Center, Amadora.

Tel: 21 495 06 99. 1. The first consultation € 60, € 30 as follows. Herbal treatments from € 10.

Portuguese Association of Homeopathy. Tel: 21 417 68 29.

www.homeopatia-aph.pt.

Lirius Center for Natural Therapies, Cascais. Tel: 21 482 12 24.

Shiatsu: € 40/sessão.

Homeopathy and naturopathy are also useful in improving allergy symptoms.

'We can prescribe draining respiratory and trace elements that help expel toxins, strengthening the biological terrain, "explains the homeopath and naturopath Luis de Jesus Silva. But beyond that, it is always essential to improve the way of eating. The dangers of a poor diet can appear years later, often in the form of illness or allergies of unknown etiology or autoimmune 'warning. The President of the Institute of Macrobiotics Portugal, Francisco Varatojo also puts the focus on power and guarantees have already handled several kinds of allergies, hives to sinusitis. 'In most cases, a change in diet is enough to end the disease or at least drastically reduce the symptoms. The reduction in milk and in some cases the excess acidity combating mucosal body (caused by a misfeed) may be sufficient to cure 'explained.

The respiratory

Domestic mites are the main cause of respiratory allergy, particularly in the autumn and winter. The pollens of trees are another common allergen in spring.

Acupuncture

'It is recognized by the World Health Organization and is not questioned its effectiveness in pain and allergies', ensures acupuncturist Peter Choy. 'Its cure rate is 30 to 40% of adults and more than 60% in children, whatever the type of allergy. No matter if it's respiratory, skin or food, because traditional Chinese medicine treats the cause, not the symptoms. And most often they are due to changes in the kidney. The tendency is genetic, if only manifest at age 40, and pollution and stress are aggravating factors as weaken the immune system, "explains. Rely on a long-term treatment (30 sessions over a year and a half, generally in conjunction with the herbal medicine, which comprises administering medicinal herbs). Also they use auxiliary techniques such as tui na massage, pressing his hands acupuncture energy points.

Hives

About 80% of the population has at least one episode of hives in life. The causes can be many: dust mites, pollen, foods, medications, insect bites, plants or even infections and stress. 'They are also increasingly common cases of physical urticaria, which arise after stimuli such as cold, heat or exercise, and then disappear, "says allergist Cristina Santa Marta. It can also be a symptom such as fever, refers to the existence of other diseases. 'The causes are not always discovered, and in these cases, the cure is difficult.'

Symptoms: Reddish spots and papules that cause itching.

Treatment: Antihistamines relieve the itching and reduce inflammation. Corticosteroids should be reserved for more serious cases, as when used for more than one month have side effects. In half of the cases usually disappear naturally within two years.

Prevention: Control of stress may help reduce the frequency and severity of seizures.

Workarounds

Calls unconventional therapies are particularly effective in chronic diseases and can be a precious help.

Contact eczema

In this case, eczema appears clearly following contact with the allergen and the areas of contact. Most are the metals such as nickel or chromium, fragrances and chemicals or dyes. It is more common in adults.

Symptoms: The reactions to these substances are not very different from atopic eczema. The inflammation arises after 48 to 72 hours, as well as itching, redness in the area concerned.

Diagnosis: The location is the primary means of diagnosis. Then, the contact tests allow confirmation.

Treatment: In both eczema, treatment is to avoid contact with that which causes the allergy. If it does it is possible, for example, because of their profession, can be administered anti-inflammatory steroids and in some cases antibiotics.

Atopic Eczema

Reaches 10% of Portuguese and, despite being very common childhood 'is increasingly a disease of adults, "says Mário Morais de Almeida. Generally, it is caused or aggravated by allergens, especially mites or pollen, but also cow's milk, egg and nuts.

Symptoms: In children, manifested as itching, redness and dry skin on the face in the folds of the body (knees, elbows), and in adults appears as red spots, which may disappear within days (acute) or last year (chronic .)

Diagnosis: Blood tests detect antibodies specific allergies and skin tests and contact try to identify them.

Prevention: Avoid accumulation of dust, use protective covers on mattresses and pillows, keep the skin hydrated, use cotton clothing and avoid fiber.

Skin Allergies

Want arise in childhood or adulthood, causing much inconvenience, especially when you can not identify the causes.

Food Allergies

But are increasingly common and can lead to death. Blame it on the processed foods and additives that our bodies have not had time to get used to.

More than one million Portuguese suffer from food allergies: 8% 3% are children and adults. Often confused with food intolerance, but while the first body develops antibodies in response to certain foods, in the second, 'what there is a deficiency in the body that has no essential enzymes to digest certain substances, such as lactose or gluten, "explains Cristina Santa Marta.

Some of the foods most likely to cause allergies are eggs, cashews, almonds, peanuts, walnuts, chocolate, chestnut, kiwi, sesame and curry.

Symptoms: The lighter can be limited to rashes, urticaria (swelling of the lips and throat), shortness of breath, nausea and diarrhea. In more severe, there may be an anaphylactic reaction, wherein the sore throat is so large that prevents breathing, which can cause loss of consciousness and even lead to death. It is not always necessary to ingest food in some cases the mere inhalation is sufficient.

Diagnosis: Blood tests detect the presence of antibodies and sometimes the skin may also be useful. Although a positive result means that there is not always allergic a negative sensitivity is unlikely to it. Elimination diets are another way to try to identify allergens. Imply that eliminate all possible causes of allergy, and then reintroduced one at a time, until you identify the culprit.

Treatment: In acute crises, are administered antihistamines and corticosteroids. There are also kits emergency epinephrine to combat anaphylactic shocks. In addition to these drugs, there is no specific treatments and the solution avoid the possible causes of food allergies.

Rhinitis, sinusitis and allergic conjunctivitis

The allergic rhinitis is the most common. Affects 2.5 million Portuguese, and more than one-third also has asthma. It is common in children and underdiagnosed. 'When we neglect complaints, leaves a door open to the lung, which can trigger or worsen asthma', warns Morais de Almeida. Is associated with sinusitis and allergic conjunctivitis.

Symptoms: In rhinitis, the most common are: nasal obstruction, itching, sneezing and dripping nose, sleep disturbance and fatigue. In sinusitis, there is an inflammation of the nasal mucosa, which makes the drainage of mucus. In conjunctivitis, the eyes become red, watery, swollen and itchy. It is triggered by dust mites, pet dander and pollens. Is associated with seasonal allergic rhinitis, the symptoms overlap.

Diagnosis: Applies to rhinitis and sinusitis symptoms of the analysis by examining the inside of the nose, looking for typical changes, as a pale mucosa. They can do skin tests and blood tests to check the level of specific antibodies, and which also take place in case of conjunctivitis.

Treatment: When rhinitis and sinusitis are intermittent, might be sufficient to use an antihistamine, which relieves symptoms. Persistent forms are treated with nasal steroids, anti - histamines oral or nasal. Vaccines reduce the reactivity of the bronchi. In seasonal rhinitis, vaccinate themselves before the pollen season. Conjunctivitis is treated with oral antihistamines and eye drops. Avoid contact lenses.

Allergic Sinusitis

Allergic sinusitis is an inflammation of the paranasal sinuses caused by allergy to any external agent, for example, mites or some type of food.

Individuals who have allergic sinusitis when in contact with the causative agent of allergy, produce secretions that accumulate in the sinuses, causing headaches, bad breath, and nasal congestion.

Crises allergic sinusitis can occur frequently, causing great discomfort to the individual.

Causes

The primary cause of the disease is inflammation of the mucous membrane lining the nasal cavity throughout due to an external agent which causes allergies which may be related to:

• Mites;

• Dust;

• Intolerance to food;

Symptoms

Symptoms of allergic sinusitis are similar to the viral sinusitis, the main ones are:

• Headache;

• Sneezing;

• Difficulty to breathe:

• Coryza frequent;

• Eyes bloodshot and watery;

• Pain in the bones of the face;

Diagnosis

The diagnosis is made by an otolaryngologist, who will analyze the face and the symptoms presented by the patient.

Allergy tests are done to detect the cause of allergy, the result is immediate and guides the physician indicating the best treatment for the patient.

Treatment

Sinusitis Allergic is treated using allergy, allergy but must also be controlled through the removal of agents which cause.

Decongestants are used to facilitate breathing, and saline solution to achieve a nasal washing and drainage of accumulated secretions.

Allergy to insect sting

Allergy to insect sting, scientifically called scrofulous, generates symptoms such as local redness and intense itching, but some individuals may have an exaggerated allergic reaction, called anaphylaxis, characterized by a drop in blood pressure and extreme difficulty in breathing. In these cases, the reaction is very fast and the individual must be taken to the hospital as soon as possible as there is a risk of death by suffocation.

Symptoms

Symptoms of allergy to insect bites:

• redness,

• swelling of the area,

• intense itching and

• output of a fluid liquid and transparent at the bite site.

The insects that cause most allergic reactions are:

• mosquitoes and blackflies,

• bees,

• wasps,

• wasps,

• fire ants and

• fleas.

When you have allergies to any of these insects the individual has about a 60% chance of having an allergic reaction to the same or worse if bitten another time.

Treatment

For the treatment of allergy to insect bites is recommended to spend a pebble ice in place until it melts completely. The ice will promote vasoconstriction and decrease inflammation. In most cases the use of an ointment allergic, such as Polaramine, 2 to 3 times a day is sufficient to treat the allergy.

By scratching the area the individual may aggravate the situation causing a secondary infection. In this case it is recommended that the intake of antibiotics for a more efficient approach.

If to be stung by the insect area getting increasingly bloated recommended to go to the doctor and if possible with the insect that bit him so that it is identified. This is important because if any of a bee sting, for example, it is necessary to withdraw the stinger left on it so that the wound is healed.

Anaphylactic shock

Anaphylactic shock, or anaphylaxis, is an allergic reaction, immediate hypersensitivity and severe, affecting the whole body. In its most severe manifestation is when causes swelling and obstruction of the upper airways and / or hypotension, which can be fatal.

The lack of air can be fatal unless the subject receives the emergency treatment promptly.

Treatment

The initial treatment for anaphylactic shock is an intravenous injection of adrenaline 0.3 to 0.5mg, which can be repeated 3 to 5 minutes acada and supplying oxygen to the subject through a mask.

If the throat is closed and prevent the passage of air, it is necessary to perform a cricothyrotomy, which is a surgical procedure to maintain respiration, brain oxygenation and integrity until the situation is normalized. After resolution of signs and symptoms is important to observe the patient for 4-6 hours. Already in severe and refractory cases, it is important to observe 10-24 hours.

Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of an anaphylactic shock can be:

• Difficulty in breathing

• Sweating

• Pale skin and cold

• Rapid pulse

• Wheezing when breathing

• Itching

• Redness of the body

• Confusion

• Unconsciousness

• vascular collapse

• Incontinence

• Vomiting

• Abdominal pain

First aid for anaphylactic shock

In case of a suspected anaphylactic shock, it is recommended to call an ambulance ASAP.

While waiting, try to understand what caused the allergic reaction. If it was an insect bite or snake, for example, remove the sting of the animal skin and apply a pebble ice in place, tie strength with a clean cloth a few inches above the biting animal, to decrease the spread of venom.

Some allergic patients often have an anti-allergic (Epinephrine) in your pocket or wallet, and ask him, if necessary, take the medication as soon as possible.

Causes

Some possible causes of anaphylaxis are medications, insect venom, and certain foods that cause allergy on the individual as the egg, for example.

Because anaphylactic shock occurs

Anaphylactic shock occurs when an individual comes in contact with an agent (antigen) that excite others the immune system, allowing it an overreaction, called the hypersensitive reaction of your body producing the signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis after a short period exposure to allergen.

Allergy to fragrance

Allergy to perfume can be observed when the area where it is sprayed perfume is red, irritated and itchy. However, some individuals are allergic to perfume but has no skin changes, complaining only of irritation in the nose, watery eyes and coughing to smell it in the air.

Although incômada allergy to perfume is not fatal and can be easily identified in an allergy test done by an allergist. These patients should avoid the most use of perfume, cologne, eau de parfum and creams, shampoos, conditioners and scented soaps.

Also you need to be careful not to use cleaning products for the home scented or contain substances like Lyral, natural essence of rose oil and geraniol, as these are some of the most susceptible to allergies and so are always identified in product packaging.

An alternative for individuals who are allergic to perfume is the perfume spray distance, on clothing, on the porch or in the yard, a few hours before donning it, so the concentration of perfume and reduces allergy risk decreases considerably.

If any product that causes allergy in individual contact with skin and irritated it remains, it is recommended to spend a cortisone cream on the area for a few days.

Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is an allergic reaction exaggerated, also known as anaphylactic shock, which may occur in any individual prone to allergies.

It can be caused by numerous reasons. Foods such as peanuts, seafood and egg, medications, latex, insect bites, snake bites and strenuous exercise are some example of what can cause anaphylaxis.

In the case of anaphylaxis, the individual must have difficulty breathing, will become swollen, with rapid heartbeat and will have itching all over the body. In this case, you should immediately take him to the hospital so that treatment is initiated as soon as possible.

This is to give the individual a drug called adrenaline or epinephrine, and may need to intubate him, or do it by breathing apparatus.

Dermatitis

Dermatitis is an allergic skin reaction which generates localized symptoms such as redness and itching, which can be treated using an ointment anti-allergic, for example.

Symptoms

The symptoms of dermatitis may be:

• redness in the region,

• itching,

• flaking,

• there may be the formation of small blisters filled with clear liquid.

Causes

The causes of dermatitis may be:

• contact with any substance that causes allergy,

• side effect of some medication,

• poor blood circulation,

• intense skin dryness.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of dermatitis is made by a dermatologist to observe the individual's injuries.

Treatment

The treatment of dermatitis will depend on the type of dermatitis that the individual has, but can be done with the intake of drugs or the use of an ointment as allergy Quadriderm, for example.

Dermatosis gray

Gray acne is a skin disease of unknown cause that is not influenced by climatic factors, racial, or food-related work. Has a chronic condition, characterized by the appearance of lesions that spread in the skin, grayish in color with red border and thin, sometimes slightly elevated. The lesions appear abruptly, for outbreaks, without previous symptoms, sometimes accompanied by itching. Typically, this type of acne leaves permanent stains on the skin and so far, no form of treatment was effective.

Palmoplantar dermatosis youth

Palmoplantar juvenile acne is a type of acne that is usually located in the soles, especially the heels and toes of both feet. It is characterized by redness, excess production of keratin and cracked skin with a shiny appearance. The symptoms worsen in winter, deep cracks can cause pain and bleeding from time to time. The main cause is the use of wet shoes and socks or excessive contact with water.

Contact dermatitis

Contact dermatitis is inflammation of the skin caused by physical and chemical agents, which cause discomfort, pain, itching, burning, and psychosomatic reactions. Initially limited to the area of ​​contact with the causative agent, but then can spread. It is most common on the hands as it is on the housewives in some professions that require contact and direct exposure to more aggressive products to the skin. It can also happen on the earlobes or the anterior wrist, allergy to nickel contained in the buckle of the watch. In many cases, contact can also be through air, as with the pollen and perfumes.

Dermatosis and dermatitis are the same thing?

Dermatosis and dermatitis are not necessarily the same thing, although they are often confused. The dermatosis is a broader term used to describe skin diseases that are classified as Psoriasis, Eczema, Acne, Hives, among others. Dermatitis or dermatitis means exclusively skin inflammation.

Acne

Acne is a group of skin diseases, allergic disorders characterized by persistent symptoms of which in general are blistering, itching, inflammation and desquamation of the skin.

Causes

The causes of acne are still controversial, but there may be:

• Food poisoning through the egg, dairy and citrus fruits;

• Weaknesses of the kidneys, liver, intestines or the skin itself;

• Exposure to chemicals harmful to health;

• As a consequence of other diseases like Asthma and Allergic Rhinitis;

• Trend hereditary;

• Dysfunction of the immune system;

• Contact with wool, soaps or detergents;

• Extreme temperatures.

To reduce the occurrence of seizures should avoid agents that cause irritation, moisturize your skin frequently to avoid excessive sweating, bathing with warm or cold water, reducing stress situations, wear cotton gloves for housework and avoid wearing clothes synthetic fabrics.

Allergic Rhinitis

Allergic rhinitis may vary according to where the person lives. Normally, certain allergens are responsible for increasing the irritation of the nasal mucosa, among which we can highlight:

• House dust mites: in Brazil, dust mites are the major cause of Allergic Rhinitis for the hot and humid climate favors their multiplication, especially in the bedrooms, where people spend many hours. The mites feed on all kinds of organic matter such as paper, wool, animal hair, fungi and peeling skin. It must, therefore, perform the cleaning of the room more efficiently and in detail by means of dehumidifiers, and esterelizadores more powerful vacuums;

• Pollen of plants: people usually complain more in early spring, worsening in the morning and on windy days. Some say that symptoms improve when it rains;

• Fungi: It is also known as "mold" is more developed and the air in the autumn. The allergic to fungi, report more complaints at night in humid environments, feeling better in dry environments;

• Certain foods: there are several foods that can cause a worsening of allergies in general, including allergic rhinitis. The most common are egg, chocolate, fish, wheat, gluten, artificial colors, cow's milk, peanuts, among others.

• Hair and feathers of domestic animals;

• Environmental pollutants;

• Smells like strong perfumes, disinfectants and chlorine pool;

• Cigarette smoke;

• Air-conditioning.

Consequences

The consequences of Allergic Rhinitis are diverse. It is very common for people to get used to the symptoms and seek medical attention only when there are more serious problems. However, it is important to encourage the treatment as soon as possible, because recent studies have demonstrated that patients with allergic rhinitis, even moderate, may have deleterious effects on cognitive function, attention and psychomotor.

The constant use of allergy causing sleep can also lower the level of reflections, resulting in accidents and traffic.

Treatment

The best treatment for allergic rhinitis is prevention. Should make environmental control of the house and the work of the individual, eliminating anything that might cause allergy and cleaning the place as much as possible.

It should also be physical activities to improve overall fitness, using drugs such as oral antihistamines and inhaled corticosteroids to prevent and treat seizures, taking vaccines and in some severe cases, nasal surgery. A practical and efficient are frequent nasal lavage with saline.

Allergic Cough

The allergic cough is a kind of persistent dry cough that comes up whenever the individual comes into contact with the allergenic substance, which can be dust, cat hair, dog hair or pollen from flowers and trees, for example. This type of cough is most common in the spring and fall, although it can also occur in the winter because the environments tend to be more closed this time of year, causing accumulation of allergenic substances in the air.

Symptoms

Symptoms of an allergic cough are:

• Dry cough, phlegm, or ever have any discharge;

• persistent dry cough, which occurs several times per day, but especially at night;

• irritative cough, which, when it starts, it seems that will not stop anymore.

The individual may have respiratory allergies and not knowing. To clarify this question, it can perform an allergy test, recommended by an allergist or pulmonologist. Children of allergic parents are more likely to develop respiratory allergies and therefore are more likely to suffer from persistent dry cough.

Treatment

The treatment for allergic cough should be made based on your question and why it is indicated that the individual take some antihistamine medicine prescribed by the doctor and avoid contact with the allergenic substance. The doctor may choose to take a cough syrup allergic, that in addition to fighting the allergy will soothe the throat, reducing the symptoms of cough.