Final answer:
Patients with allergies may have reactions to routine immunization due to the immune system's response to allergens. Mild symptoms are treated with antihistamines, while severe reactions like anaphylaxis need epinephrine. Immunotherapy can desensitize the immune system to allergens.
Step-by-step explanation:
Patients with certain allergies may experience reactions when receiving routine immunization due to the immune system's heightened sensitivity to specific antigens, or allergens. In some individuals, allergens such as pollen, dust mites, mold, or specific foods initiate an immune response resulting in the production of IgE antibodies. A substance that causes allergies is referred to as an allergen. Typical symptoms of an allergic reaction can range from itchy, watery eyes to sneezing and swollen tissues. More severe reactions, like anaphylaxis, produce symptoms such as airway contraction and a dangerous drop in blood pressure which require immediate treatment with epinephrine.
Mild allergy symptoms may be treated with antihistamines, which counteract the histamines causing allergic symptoms. Anaphylaxis, however, is a medical emergency that necessitates injections of epinephrine. Immunotherapy is another approach used to desensitize the immune system to allergens and may involve gradual exposure to increasing amounts of allergens through injections or other forms of application. For those with severe allergies, precautionary measures and proper allergy management during immunization is imperative to reduce the risk of allergic reactions.
Type I hypersensitivity, or immediate hypersensitivity, is characteristic of allergic responses that can be either localized or systemic, such as anaphylaxis. Systemic reactions are life-threatening and require immediate intervention. Thus, healthcare providers should be aware of patients' allergies before administering vaccines to prevent potential allergic reactions.