31 March 2020 Allergic diseases are very prevalent worldwide. Its severity is variable, from a mild and transient symptoms to situations of life compromise, resulting in a recognized impact on the quality of life for the patient. Allergies arise from the existence of an inadequate response of the immune system to environmental (eg pollens, animal hair, dust mites) or others (food, medicines, insects) elements. At the opposite extreme, disorders in the immune system called primary immunodeficiencie s arise from the existence of a deficient response of the immune system in the face of aggressive agents (bacteria, viruses or fungi), thus presenting with recurrent infections. Several allergic diseases can appear simultaneously in the same person, such as: Rhinitis, Conjunctivitis, Recurrent wheezing, Asthma, Hives, Atopic or contact dermatitis. In recent years there has been an increase in cases of food allergy and drug allergy , which can present with manifestations: In skin , for example angioedema, urticaria; Digestive or gastrointestinal, for example vomiting, diarrhea; Respiratory , for example edema of glottis, shortness of breath and wheezing; Anaphylactic reactions, which can be life-threatening. Cases of allergy to insects, for example to wasps or bees, are less common, but can result in very serious situations. The authors of this text are the following allergologists from the Hospital da Luz network: Luís Miguel Borrego, Ana Morais Mendes, Ana Reis Ferreira, Andreia Ferrão, Carlos Braga, Cristina Lopes, Diana Pereira da Silva, Filipa Semedo, Isabel Costa Silva, João Gaspar Marques, Pedro Carreiro Martins, Marta Salgado, Nuno Sousa, Rosa Anita Fernandes, Susana Piedade The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
