HOLISTIC APPROACH TO CLINICAL PROBLEMS OF HYPERSENSITIVITY

The solution of clinical problems in allergy is dependent on (1) a recognition of the fact that an altered immunological response is present and (2) the employment of all possible means to avoid or modify the reaction. Consideration of six principles is necessary in the management of allergic patients: 1. Allergic persons are inherently capable of abnormal immunological reactions to normal environment factors. 2. They become sensitive to the agents exposed to in the greatest quantity and for the longest time. 3. Symptoms are usually the cumulative response to several sensitivities. 4. They usually involve the skin first, then eyes, nose, throat, trachea, bronchial tree, and alveoli, in that order. 5. Repeated attacks lower the critical sensitivity level of response so that subsequent exposures result in more severe symptoms. 6. Symptoms are modified by age, endocrine changes, climatic factors, and emotional stress.