Allergic reactions to cigarettes: tips and advice

What is a cigarette allergy?

Cigarette allergy is an allergic reaction of the body to various substances in cigarette smoke. This type of allergy can occur in people of all ages, including children, and can cause a number of unpleasant symptoms. It is important to note that an allergy to nicotine is only one possible cause of a cigarette allergy.

Cigarette allergy causes

Cigarette smoke contains many chemicals that can cause an allergic reaction. These include nicotine, tar, formaldehyde and other harmful components. Allergies to tobacco can also be related to a reaction to tobacco leaves used in the manufacture of cigarettes.

Some people are hypersensitive to smoke from cigarettes, which can cause an allergic reaction. This is because the air contaminated by cigarette smoke irritates the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract, eyes and skin.

Symptoms of cigarette allergies

• Allergies to tobacco smoke can manifest as difficulty breathing, coughing, runny nose, and nasal congestion. Smokers with nicotine allergies may also experience asthmatic attacks.
• Skin symptoms of cigarette allergies may include hives, itching, redness, and rashes. In rare cases, quincke's edema may occur.
• Allergies to tobacco smoke can cause lacrimation, itching, redness, and swelling of the eyelids.

Diagnosis of cigarette allergy

To diagnose a cigarette allergy, an allergist interviews the patient, finds out the history of the disease, and conducts an examination. In some cases, blood tests for antibodies to allergens or skin tests may be required.

Cigarette allergy treatment

The mainstay of cigarette allergy treatment is avoiding contact with cigarette smoke. If possible, you should eliminate smoking at home and in the workplace, and avoid places with secondhand smoke.

Medication treatment

Your doctor may prescribe medications to treat the symptoms of tobacco smoke allergy. These may include antihistamines (Cetirizine, Loratadine, Fexofenadine), anti-inflammatory medications (Naisylate, Ibuprofen), and decongestants. In case of asthmatic attacks, bronchodilators may be used.

Allergen-specific immunotherapy

In rare cases where the cigarette allergy is caused by a reaction to nicotine or tobacco, an allergist may suggest allergen-specific immunotherapy. This method consists of gradually introducing small doses of the allergen into the body in order to reduce sensitivity to it.

Cigarette allergy prevention

To prevent the development of cigarette allergies, it is important to avoid secondhand smoke, especially in children. It is also recommended to ventilate rooms and use air purifiers to remove tobacco smoke.

Electronic cigarettes and allergies

Electronic cigarettes can also cause allergic reactions, especially if the liquid contains flavorings or nicotine. It is important to keep in mind that eliminating regular cigarettes and switching to electronic cigarettes does not guarantee you will be completely free of cigarette allergies.

Cigarette allergies in children

In children, allergies to tobacco smoke can be particularly severe because of an underdeveloped immune system. It can cause breathing problems, sleep disorders, and provoke the development of asthma. Parents should be sure to eliminate smoking in the presence of the child and shield him from contact with tobacco smoke as much as possible.

Cigarette allergy is a serious problem that can cause many unpleasant symptoms. If you or your child suspect a cigarette allergy, be sure to see an experienced allergist for diagnosis and treatment. Avoid contact with tobacco smoke and secondhand smoke, and use prescribed medications to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.