Subtitle: Allergic Reactions
Allergic reactions are an over-response of the immune system to a foreign substance. Allergies can range from mild to severe and can affect the skin, eyes, nose, throat, lungs, and gastrointestinal tract. The seven most common types of allergies are:
1. Asthma: Asthma is an inflammation of the airways that can cause wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. It is caused by allergens such as dust mites, pet dander, and pollen.
2. Food Allergies: Food allergies are caused by an immune system reaction to a particular food. Common food allergies include peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, milk, soy, and wheat.
3. Insect Sting Allergies: Insect sting allergies are an immune system reaction to the venom of certain insects, such as bees, wasps, and hornets. Symptoms may include hives, swelling, wheezing, vomiting, and anaphylaxis.
4. Drug Allergies: Drug allergies are an immune system reaction to certain medications. Symptoms may include hives, itching, rash, and anaphylaxis.
5. Environmental Allergies: Environmental allergies are an immune system reaction to certain substances in the environment, such as pollen, mold, and pet dander. Symptoms may include sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, and watery eyes.
6. Latex Allergies: Latex allergies are an immune system reaction to latex, a material used in some medical supplies and gloves. Symptoms may include hives, itching, rash, and anaphylaxis.
7. Animal Allergies: Animal allergies are an immune system reaction to certain proteins found in the saliva, urine, and dander of animals, such as cats, dogs, horses, and rodents. Symptoms may include sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, and watery eyes.
