Allergies are common diseases that you probably also encounter time and again in your family doctor’s practice. The spectrum ranges from sometimes rather banal symptoms such as allergic rhinoconjunctivitis to life-threatening anaphylactic shock. I am pleased that we are able to offer you articles on some particularly relevant aspects of this topic in the current issue of HAUSARZT PRAXIS.
Hopefully, you have not had to deal with an acute severe allergic reaction or even anaphylactic shock in the last few years. But if you do encounter one – whether in your practice or elsewhere – swift and correct action is essential. Prof. Arthur Helbling and Dr. Michael Fricker of the Inselspital Bern therefore present the most important principles of the treatment of allergic emergencies. In particular, the correct and rapid use of epinephrine, the most important drug in the treatment of anaphylaxis, is discussed in detail and with practical tips.
Very essential drugs in the treatment of allergic reactions are also the H1 receptor blocking antihistamines. Especially the 2nd generation antihistamines are frequently used substances with very good efficacy and safety profiles. But do you know the major interactions or metabolic abnormalities of this group of drugs? Here, the article by PD Dr. Alexander Jetter, pharmacologist at the University Hospital Zurich, can provide you with valuable information.
Finally, a problem that should not be underestimated are
Allergies on the external eye – for many patients a very annoying and disturbing symptomatology. No less an authority than my academic teacher and predecessor, Prof. Brunello Wüthrich, has, with his usual high level of practical relevance, on the one hand described the most important diagnostic steps and differential diagnoses of the
allergic reactions on the eyelid compiled. On the other hand, important and useful therapies for allergic conjunctivitis – based mostly on topical measures and supplemented again by oral antihistamines – are explained.
We hope to provide you with interesting articles and useful knowledge for your daily work, especially with patients with allergies.
Also on behalf of the authors and the publisher, I hope you enjoy reading it.
With kind, collegial regards
Prof. Dr. med. Peter Schmid-Grendelmeier
