What is Atopy?

What is Atopy? Atopy is a hereditary disorder that is characterized by a sensitive reaction to environmental allergens. Atopy is a gene, typically, passed down by the mother, but if a child has a carrier in both mother and father, he/she is more than 50% likely to show symptoms. Allergens include dust, mold, pollen, and foods.

Atopy could occur in the form of eczema or a skin rash that appears as small, red bumps or leathery, scaly skin. These symptoms will be accompanied by itchy skin that, if scratched, can increase symptoms and infections.

Three atopic diseases are allergic asthma, atopic dermatitis, and allergic rhino-conjunctivitis. Allergic asthma makes breathing difficult with a narrowing of the airway. Atopic dermatitis is an itchy, red skin, and known as a type of eczema. Allergic rhino-conjunctivitis leads to a stuffy nose with postnasal drip, and it often is accompanied with sneezing and a runny nose.

Outbreaks can occur because of a reaction to the perfumes and chemicals found in laundry detergents, soaps, or shampoos. Allergies to foods, such as eggs, soy, peanuts, fish, etc., or smoke can increase irritation. Problems can also be triggered by stress or dry skin. Dry skin can be further irritated by lengthy, hot baths or showers, and a lack of moisture.

How is it treated? Dry skin should be moisturized with lotions or oils, and showers or baths should be taken for short periods of time with luke-warm water. If an outbreak happens, then creams or corticosteroids may be purchased or prescribed.

Treat reactions with nasal sprays, antihistamines, or/and decongestants. Oral prescriptions will be given for a short period of time, rather than long term. Nasal sprays will be prescribed to reduce asthma symptoms and aid in breathing.

If other treatments have not worked, a doctor may prescribe a immunomodulator. This is a last resort and should be used with caution for short periods of time. It is dangerous due to its possible side effects.

Another trigger to a breakout is stress, which can be reduced with breathing exercises and meditation activities. Physical activity is a stress reducer. If itchiness is a factor, this can be reduced with lotions that include oatmeal or baking soda.

Brief summary: Atopy is a disease where the individual has a hypersensitivity to allergens. Three common atopic diseases are allergic asthma, atopic dermatitis, and rhino-conjunctivitis. Common allergens are pollen, dust mites, mold, foods, or smoke. Allergic asthma affects nasal passages and treatment to aid in breathing could include nasal sprays, decongestants, or antihistamines. Rhino-conjunctivitis affects the mucous lining and will lead to a drippy nose, sneezing, and oftentimes, coughing. Nasal sprays or allergy meds will be prescribed. Atopic dermatitis, itchy skin, can be prevented with creams and moisturizers.