introduction to allergy
DESCRIPTION
Allergies are becoming increasingly common in Australia for a range of reasons. These slides were developed for a course created to help the community better understand and more effectively manage allergies.TRANSCRIPT
Introduction to Allergy
Karen Archer
Naturopath – Herbalist – Iridologist
The Complete Health & Wellness Centre
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What will be covered?
Session 1 Statistics on allergy
Type of allergy – environmental, ingested, contact, injected.
What the body is doing in allergic reaction
Common causes
Session 2 Medical treatment
Naturopathic treatment
Food and nutrients to address allergy and intolerance
Other strategies to improve the problem
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
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Welcome to Spring!!!!!!
Most of us love spring – except for those who suffer from allergy.
For allergy sufferers spring is misery...
We will discuss spring fever but other allergy also.
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
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What is allergy?
Allergy is defined as an immune-mediated, hypersensitive inflammatory response to an allergen in an individual that may be harmless in other individuals.
Allergens include food, pollen, perfume. What else?
Australia has one of the highest allergy prevalence in the world.
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
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Allergy or Intolerance?
We need to careful about using the term ‘allergy’ because in some people we are talking about ‘intolerance’ rather than allergy. There are important differences between the two and treating them effectively requires different strategies.
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
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Symptoms
Allergy Swelling
Breathing difficulty
Hives
Sneezing
Sinusitis
Mucous
Rash
Intolerance Bloating
GI Pain/Discomfort
Diarrhoea
Mucous
Hyperactivity
Mood swings
Fatigue
Dark circles under eyes
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
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Causes of Allergy
Foods – dairy, nuts, salicylates
Dust
Pollen
Mould
Grasses
Chemicals – SLS, toluene
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
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What happens in allergy?
When the allergen is ingested, inhaled, injected or absorbed, the body recognises the object as a foreign body and enacts a defence.
This is a natural protection but in allergy/intolerance the defence mechanism overreacts and creates havoc in the body.
Inflammation, swelling, pain which is inappropriate for the situation
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
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The Immune System
Protects us from disease. Without an immune system we would be overcome and die.
To function properly our immunity must be highly adaptable, as pathogens can quickly change to avoid detection by our immune cells. Therefore immunity is complex
We are born with innate immunity and develop acquired immunity.
Both innate and acquired immunity depend on the ability to differentiate between self and non-self.
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
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Innate vs Adaptive Immunity
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
Innate immune system Adaptive immune system
Response is non-specific Pathogen and antigen specific response
Exposure leads to immediate maximal response
Lag time between exposure and maximal response
Cell-mediated and humoral components
Cell-mediated and humoral components
No immunological memory Exposure leads to immunological memory
Found in nearly all forms of life Found only in jawed vertebrates
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Immunity flowchart
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How do we develop immunity?
During pregnancy immune cells are transferred via the placenta
During birth, babies are covered in immune cells as they pass through the birth canal
During breastfeeding, colostrum and mothers milk provide immune cells
Coming into contact with microbes develops immunity
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Difference between Allergy & Intolerance… There are 4 types of allergic reaction:
Type 1 – Anaphylactic reactions are associated with IgE hypersensitivity reactions. This occurs when cells have come into contact with the allergen and become sensitised, no observable reaction occurs at this point. But when the allergen is encountered a second time, this is when the anaphylaxis occurs and can be very frightening for the patient and observers. Peanut allergy is an example.
Type 2 – Cytotoxic occurs when IgG and IgM antibodies react to a person’s own tissue and cells.
Type 3 - Immune complex involves IgG and IgA reactions and is seen in food intolerances.
Type 4 – Delayed Hypersensitivity Reactions occurs when 12-72 hours passes before the observable reaction is noted. This makes it very hard to identify the allergen.10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
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Ig?
Immunoglobulin (Ig) is another name for an antibody
Made when a foreign body is detected by the immune system
There are specific to particular foreign bodies
Diff: shape of the arm
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
Y shaped Antibody
Antigens
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IgA, IgD, IgE, IgG
IgA Found in mucosal areas, such as the gut, respiratory tract, urogenital tract, saliva, tears, and breast milk and prevents colonization by pathogens.
IgD Functions mainly as an antigen receptor on B cells that have not been exposed to antigens. It has been shown to activate basophils and mast cells to produce antimicrobial factors.
IgE Binds to allergens and triggers histamine release from mast cells and basophils, and is involved in allergy.
IgG In its four forms, provides the majority of antibody-based immunity against invading pathogens. The only antibody capable of crossing the placenta to give passive immunity to the foetus.
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
Immunoglobulin Isotypes/classes of Mammals
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How else are we protected?
Skin barrier
Tear
Urine
White Mucous
GI flora
Stomach Acid
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Statistics
Allergic rhinitis (hay fever) currently affects
1/10 children aged 6-7 years
1/6 children aged 13-14 years
2/5 adults
Asthma currently affects
1/5 children
1/10 adults
Eczema currently affects
1/6 children aged 6-7 years
1/10 children aged 13-14 years
1/14 adults
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
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Statistics
Allergy expert Prof Katie Allen says Australian children have the highest recorded rate of food allergies in the world and warns the statistics could translate into a wave of chronic diseases.
1:10 children have a food allergy.
Why? Any theories?
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Possible reasons:
Medical: Food proteins
Non food proteins
Toxins
Genetics
Hygiene theory
Environmental factors
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
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Possible reasons:
Dietary change
Modern farming practices
Modern living standards
Heredity
Hygiene theory
Overuse of Antibiotics
Lack of breastfeeding and vaginal birth
Low stomach acid, poor GI function and wrong intestinal bacteria
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
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SESSION 2
Medical treatment Diagnostic methods
Medication
Naturopathic treatment Diagnostic methods
Food and nutrients to address allergy and intolerance
Other strategies to improve the problem
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
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Medical Approach - Diagnostic Methods
Only deal with Allergy – not interested in intolerance
Symptoms
Medical History
Testing Full Blood Count
White Cell Count
Skin prick test
Coeliac testing
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
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Medical Approach - Medication & Treatment Antihistamines relieves itch and redness Antibiotics kill bacteria Cortisone (Prednisone) is an immunosuppressant, calming the
overactive immune response to allergens and anti-inflammatory. Ventolin relieves bronchospasm Seretide/Symbicort is a combination corticosteroid and
bronchospasm reliever Dynastat – Cox 2 inhibitor used to calm inflammation, pain and
swelling (urticaria, asthma) Ibuprofen/Aspirin – NSAID for pain relief and reduce swelling. Epinephrine – EPI pen – relieves anaphylaxis
CoQ10 should be given with corticosteroids to avoid corticosteroid induced myopathy. Some risk of Oestoporosis also exists.
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
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Naturopathic Approach - Diagnostic methods
Symptoms
Family and Medical History
Pathology and Functional Testing IgG Food tests
Iridology
Live blood analysis *
Kinesiology *
Identify the CAUSE
Treat the CAUSE…
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 043297868825
Check the Gut
Regardless of the allergic/intolerant picture, I always check the gut…
80% of our immunity cells are in our gut, therefore any immune dysfunction must address problems there
Poor digestion, bloating, wind/burping, constipation, diarrhoea, food cravings…
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Naturopathic - Treatment OptionsAsthma - Prevention Remove allergens
Phthalates and other organic compounds ie paint ie carpet, dust, bedding, curtains,
keeping areas dander and dust free, pets,
Smoke including passive
insects ie cockroaches, perfumes and cosmetics,
Some foods:
Sulphites, Dairy
cold air/cold liquids, sport,
Support immunity
guard against colds/flus bronchial asthma
Nutritionally adequate diet
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
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Naturopathic - Treatment OptionsAsthma Apply castor oil packs to the
back, lung and kidney areas
Apply mullein oil to unplug the bronchial tubes
Vitamin C reduces wheezing – kiwi fruit, citrus fruits, guava, berries
Licorice tea – relieves bronchial irritation
Omega 3 fats reduces inflammation
Magnesium 400mg/d antagonises Calcium, which
promotes bronchospasm Note: Western diets are low in Mg
Flavonoids (quercetin) reduces histamine release
High strength B complex – anti stress and support the immune system . Studies show that some B’s have an inhibitory effect on mast cells
COQ10 – see medication note
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
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Naturopathic - Treatment OptionsAsthma Other:
Avoid triggers
Support immunity
Reduce stress
Moderate physical exertion – Yoga esp breathing exercises
Correct & Support digestive function
Avoid food additives for their link to allergy/intolerance
Diaphragm can push into the lung cavity, eat lightly, reduce gas producing foods, avoid overeating and excessive weight.
Herbs:
Adhatoda
Albizia
Marshmallow
Coleus
Drosera
Euphorbia
Licorice
Grindelia
Picchoriza
Ginkgo
Baical skullcap
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
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Naturopathic – Treatment OptionsEczema/Atopic Dermatitis
Affects 12% of the population, predominantly in children but does continue into adulthood. Many things contribute to this condition which is not life threatening but reduces QOL.
Many things can contribute: FH, Stress, Food intol, intestinal dysbiosis, candida overgrowth, poor digestive function
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
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Naturopathic – Treatment OptionsEczema/Atopic Dermatitis Consider Food intolerance
testing (take a test result) IgG test
But as first start Dairy and GF until arrives
Otherwise exclude for 3m and then move to the next suspect food
Or low reactive diet – pear, rice, lamb and most vege for 3m
In all cases we do gut healing work and boost the good bacteria in the large intestine. Slippery Elm, Glutamine, Aloe vera, Turmeric, Quercetin
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
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Naturopathic – Treatment OptionsEczema/Atopic Dermatitis Reduce AA – red meat and dairy
Increase Omega 3 intake – fish, flax
Vitamin A, Vitamin D, Vitamin E, Zinc, EFAs,
Probiotics – Lactobacillis sp.
Herbs: depuratives, immune herbs but not the focus
AVOID External chemicals – perfumes, cosmetics, skin topicals, clothes detergents and softeners. Soap is not a good idea b/c it strips the acidic mantle of the skin. Liquid body wash is better but in a SLS free formula.
Stress can be a major factor in causing flare ups but is not the initiating factor. Develop stress busting techniques – breathing, yoga, changing jobs, changing partner, exercise, nervous system support (B’s, herbs, neurotransmitters, magnesium)
Topicals Chickweed
Calenda
German chamomile
Manuka honey
Vitamin E
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
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Naturopathic - Treatment OptionsHayfever/Allergic rhinitis Determine the cause via a skin
prick test or RAST; AND REMOVE IF POSSIBLE
Prepare for spring: By starting early with supplements, removing dairy from the diet because of the mucous forming element.
Saline spray/Neti pot – antibacterial and cleanses the nasal passages
Steam bath containing eucalyptus/tea tree/thyme oil
Drink lots of water to flush out the body, reduces inflammation and thins the mucous
Identifying any underlying GI disorders such as poor digestion which causes systemic inflammation and bowel flora imbalance. Urine test can identify this.
Adequate sleep, rest and exposure to fresh air.
Apply hot packs to the mucous membranes, volatile oils
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
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Naturopathic - Treatment OptionsHayfever/Allergic rhinitis Proteolytic enzymes
Zinc
Horseradish
Garlic
Nettle
Marshmallow
Echinacea
Albizia
Reishi & Shiitake Mushrooms
Antioxidants
Highly nutritious but easily digested diet ie. Soups, cooked foods eg porridge instead of muesli. Steamed vege instead of salad.
Reduce sugar as it interferes with the immune system
Warming drinks
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
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Naturopathic - Treatment OptionsHives/Chronic Urticaria
Allergic component, candida
Caused by Th1/Th2 balance. Mast cell degranulation.
Herbs: Perilla, Baical skullcap, Feverfew, Ginger
Dietary aspect
Low reactive diet
Anti-Candida diet
IgG food intolerance testing
Inspect GI health and bowel flora
In all cases we do gut healing work and boost the good bacteria in the large intestine. Slippery Elm, Glutamine, Aloe vera, Turmeric, Quercetin
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
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Naturopathic Treatment OptionsSinusitis
Very similar to Hayfever except when Chronic
Colloidal silver – antibacterial, good for infection in boney spaces
Herbs for immune support
Water for flushing
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
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Naturopathic Treatment OptionsFood Allergy & Intolerance
Food Allergy – can improve over time
Food Intolerance – definitely improves over time
Foods contain a huge range of substances that we can be allergic/intolerant to Proteins
Amines
Salicylates
Additives
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
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Naturopathic Treatment OptionsFood Allergy & Intolerance
Consider Food intolerance testing (IgG test)
But as first start Dairy and GF until test result arrives
Otherwise exclude for 3m and then move to the next suspect food
Or low reactive diet – pear, rice, lamb and most vege for 3m
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
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Naturopathic Treatment OptionsFood Allergy & Intolerance
In all cases we do gut healing work and boost the good bacteria in the large intestine. Slippery Elm, Glutamine, Aloe Vera, Turmeric, Quercetin
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
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Naturopathic Treatment OptionsFood Allergy & Intolerance
Cross reactivity
Some children who are allergic to cow's milk protein also show a cross sensitivity to soy-based products.
People with latex allergy often also develop allergies to bananas, kiwi, avocados, and some other foods
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
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Final note:
More than one allergy can contribute to symptoms and then food intolerances can further complicate the picture.
I try to be a detective when it comes to allergic symptoms because there can be no complete improvement without addressing the whole picture.
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
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Thanks for attending!
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
The Complete Health & Wellness CentreShop 2, 5 Murray StreetPORT MACQUARIE Mob: 0432 978 688Email: [email protected]: karenarcher.com.au