In a nutshell, an allergy can be defined as an abnormal reaction from an individual’s immune system normally against a harmless substance. Individuals with no allergies would not have a reaction to these substances, or allergens, but the body’s of those who do release certain chemicals and it is these that cause the allergy symptoms.

An allergy can range from such things as itchy eyes to rashes to runny nose and is so widespread that they can affect 25% of the population at some stage of their lives. People have to be aware though, that these symptoms can be caused by factors other than an allergy as well, and could well be from a disease instead. More or less anything can be classed as an allergen for an individual but the most common come from pollen, dust mites, pets, insects, industrial chemicals, certain medicines and some foods like eggs and milk.

Common Allergic Reactions

The immune system of an allergic person reacts by producing special kinds of antibodies called IgE when it thinks it is being “damaged” by an allergen, and these antibodies attack the invader. This procedure then causes other blood cells to discharge other chemicals, which together with the antibodies cause the allergic reaction symptoms.

Food Allergies

Diarrhea can simply be defined as loose, watery stools. People are classed as having diarrhea if they pass such stools more than three times a day. If somebody has acute diarrhea, the problem usually persists for a couple of days only and then clears up of its own accord. On the other hand, if an individual suffers from prolonged diarrhea, meaning more than a couple of days, it could be symptomatic of a more serious problem, as well as posing a risk of dehydration. Dehydration is especially dangerous in young children and the elderly and as such should be treated immediately to help avoid any future potential health issues.

Diarrhea

Individuals of any age can get diarrhea and you may be surprised to find out that the average in developed countries will have a bout of acute diarrhea approximately four times per year. Acute diarrhea is normally associated with a parasitic, a viral or a bacterial infection whereas a chronic diarrhea is typically related to some sort of functional disorder like irritable bowel disorder.

Some other causes of the condition include food intolerances, a reaction to certain medicines, and intestinal diseases such as Crohn’s and celiac disease. Diarrhea can be accompanied by abdominal pains, cramps, nausea, bloating and an urgent overwhelming need to use the toilet.

More often than not, the only treatment required for diarrhea is the replacement of lost fluids. There are some medicines available that can stop the condition, but these aren’t recommended for individuals who have diarrhea caused by a parasitic or bacterial infection. This is because if you stop the diarrhea before the bacteria or parasite is removed from the intestines they will be trapped there prolonging the problem.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, occurs when stomach acid or the juices of the stomach flow back into the oesophagus, which is the tube that connects the throat and the stomach. This can occur after eating too much or bending over soon after eating and can leave a sour taste in the mouth. When this process only happens occasionally, it is known as heartburn, but having it occur at least a couple of time each week means it is gastroesophageal reflux disease. If this is the case then it is imperative to get it treated because GERD can actually lead to damage of the oesophagus or can cause ulcers.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease GERD

Diagnosis of the condition is usually in the form of a physical examination by a doctor, who will also question the patient about their overall health. Depending on the severity of bouts, the doctor may or may not suggest further tests. The doctor may prescribe medication that helps block or reduce stomach acid – if the heartburn disappears then the individual will probably be diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Apart from the medication the doctor can prescribe, there are certain over-the-counter solutions available such as antacids and H2 blockers. A change in lifestyle is also very effective at controlling the condition, with losing weight and changing the diet two leading ways to do this.