Everything You Need to Know About Allergies =

                                                            

Allergies

An allergy is an immune system response to a foreign substance that’s not typically harmful to your body. These foreign substances are called allergens. They can include certain foods, pollen, or pet dander.

Your immune system’s job is to keep you healthy by fighting harmful pathogens. It does this by attacking anything it thinks could put your body in danger. Depending on the allergen, this response may involve inflammation, sneezing, or a host of other symptoms.

Your immune system normally adjusts to your environment. For example, when your body encounters something like pet dander, it should realize it’s harmless. In people with dander allergies, the immune system perceives it as an outside invader threatening the body and attacks it.

Symptoms of allergies

The symptoms you experience because of allergies are the result of several factors. These include the type of allergy you have and how severe the allergy is.

If you take any medication before an anticipated allergic response, you may still experience some of these symptoms, but they may be reduced.

For food allergies

                                                                                 

Food allergies can trigger swelling, hives, nausea, fatigue, and more. It may take a while for a person to realize that they have a food allergy. If you have a serious reaction after a meal and you’re not sure why, see a medical professional immediately. They can find the exact cause of your reaction or refer you to a specialist.

For seasonal allergies

                                          

Hay fever symptoms can mimic those of a cold. They include congestion, runny nose, and swollen eyes. Most of the time, you can manage these symptoms at home using over-the-counter treatments. See your doctor if your symptoms become unmanageable.

For severe allergies

Severe allergies can cause anaphylaxis. This is a life-threatening emergency that can lead to breathing difficulties, lightheadedness, and loss of consciousness. If you’re experiencing these symptoms after coming in contact with a possible allergen, seek medical help immediately.

Allergies on skin

Skin allergies may be a sign or symptom of an allergy. They may also be the direct result of exposure to an allergen.

Types of skin allergies include:

• Rashes. Areas of skin are irritated, red, or swollen, and can be painful or itchy.
• Eczema. Patches of skin become inflamed and can itch and bleed.
• Contact dermatitis. Red, itchy patches of skin develop almost immediately after contact with an allergen.
• Sore throat. Pharynx or throat is irritated or inflamed.
• Hives. Red, itchy, and raised welts of various sizes and shapes develop on the surface of the skin.
• Swollen eyes. Eyes may be watery or itchy and look “puffy.”
• Itching. There’s irritation or inflammation in the skin.
• Burning. Skin inflammation leads to discomfort and stinging sensations on the skin.

Causes of allergies

• Animal products. These include pet dander, dust mite waste, and cockroaches.
• Drugs. Penicillin and sulfa drugs are common triggers.
• Foods. Wheat, nuts, milk, shellfish, and egg allergies are common.
• Insect stings. These include bees, wasps, and mosquitoes.
• Mold. Airborne spores from mold can trigger a reaction.
• Plants. Pollens from grass, weeds, and trees, as well as resin from plants such as poison ivy and poison oak, are very common plant allergens.
• Other allergens. Latex, often found in latex gloves and condoms, and metals like nickel are also common allergens.

Preventing symptoms

There’s no way to prevent allergies. But there are ways to prevent the symptoms from occurring. The best way to prevent allergy symptoms is to avoid the allergens that trigger them.

Avoidance is the most effective way to prevent food allergy symptoms. An elimination diet can help you determine the cause of your allergies so you know how to avoid them. To help you avoid food allergens, thoroughly read food labels and ask questions while dining out.

Preventing seasonal, contact, and other allergies comes down to knowing where the allergens are located and how to avoid them. If you’re allergic to dust, for example, you can help reduce symptoms by installing proper air filters in your home, getting your air ducts professionally cleaned, and dusting your home regularly.