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What is Cockroach allergy?
Cockroaches contain a protein that causes allergic reactions in many people. When people allergic to cockroach comes in contact with the body parts, saliva and waste of cockroaches they get allergic reaction. Furthermore, dead cockroaches can also cause allergic reactions(1).
American cockroach (Periplaneta americana) and German cockroach (Blatella germanica) are the commonly known species. Both of these species are known to cause asthma and allergic reactions in sensitive individuals(5). The following table highlights the features of these species(3-4):
American Cockroach (Periplaneta americana)
German Cockroach (Blatella germanica)
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What are the symptoms of Cockroach allergy(1)?
Symptoms of cockroach allergy include:
Asthma triggered because of cockroach allergy can cause:
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How is cockroach allergy diagnosed(1,5)?
Cockroach allergy is diagnosed usually on the basis of clinical symptoms of hypersensitivity involving the respiratory system.
Your doctor may conduct a physical examination and discuss your symptoms. If your doctor thinks you have a cockroach allergy, he or she may suggest a skin prick test or a specific IgE blood test.
Skin prick test
The skin prick test involves:
Tiny amounts of purified allergen extracts including an extract for cockroach will be pricked onto your skin’s surface. If you are allergic to cockroaches, you will develop a red, itchy bump where the cockroach extract was pricked onto your skin.
In some cases your doctor may order a blood test that screens your blood for specific allergy-causing antibodies to various common allergens, including HDM (3).
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Following are the preventive measures you can take to avoid cockroach allergy(1)?:
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What is the treatment for cockroach allergy(1)?
Antihistamines:
They are available in the form of pills, liquids or nose sprays. They can help in relieving symptoms such as sneezing and itching in the nose and eyes, running nose and, to a lesser extent, nasal stuffiness.
Nasal corticosteroids::
It is a type of nose spray. It reduces swelling in the nose and block allergic reaction. They are most effective in allergic rhinitis.
Leukotriene receptor antagonists:
It blocks the action of important chemical messengers (other than histamine) involved in allergic reactions.
Leukotriene receptor antagonists:
It blocks the action of important chemical messengers (other than histamine) involved in allergic reactions.
Cromolyn sodium
It is a type of nose spray. It blocks the release of chemicals that cause allergy symptoms.
Decongestants:
They are available in the form of pills, liquids, nose sprays or drops. Its use is recommended for a short duration.
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