Allergy

Question 1

What is it

Answer 1

the normal immune response goes into overdrive after exposure to some substances, + the body completely over-reacts to the presence of an antigen. An allergic reaction occurs,+ results in sudden swelling of the tissues + the production of copious fluids from the body tissues.

Question 2

Allergen

Answer 2

the substance that stimulated the over-reaction. The effects of the allergen on the individual can range in severity from hay fever-like symptoms, to a mild rash, to full anaphylactic shock episode which is potentially fatal

Question 3

The individuals

Answer 3

often, those prone to an allergic reaction will already suffer from disorders such as asthma, eczema or hay fever. so they should be identified from their medical history + treated with caution

Question 4

Precautions to take

Answer 4

include avoidance of known allergens such as latex products (gloves, rubber dam, local anaesthetic cartridge bungs + certain drugs such as the antibiotic penicillin + its derivatives.

Question 5

Contact dermatitis

Answer 5

increased amongst dental staff due to use of hand washing agents,

Question 6

Respiratory tract allergic reactions

Answer 6

due to increased sue of surface cleaning sprays and wipes that are necessary to comply with current infection control legislation.