Allergies
Allergies are an immune system response to a foreign substance. They can range from mild to life-threatening. While some allergies can be managed with over-the-counter medications, others require more intensive medical care. There are nine common allergies that affect millions of people around the world:
1. Hay Fever – Also known as allergic rhinitis, hay fever is the most common allergic condition. It is an allergic reaction to pollen, dust mites, and other environmental triggers that cause sneezing, itchy eyes, and a runny nose.
2. Asthma – Asthma is a chronic lung condition in which the airways become inflamed and constricted due to an allergic reaction. Symptoms include wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath.
3. Food Allergies – Food allergies are an immune system response to certain foods such as peanuts, tree nuts, dairy, eggs, soy, fish, or shellfish. Symptoms of food allergies include hives, swelling, itching, and anaphylaxis.
4. Drug Allergies – Drug allergies are an immune system reaction to certain drugs such as penicillin or ibuprofen. Symptoms include hives, rash, itching, and anaphylaxis.
5. Insect Sting Allergies – Insect sting allergies are an immune system reaction to the venom of certain types of insects such as bees, wasps, and fire ants. Symptoms include hives, rash, itching, and anaphylaxis.
6. Skin Allergies – Skin allergies are an immune system reaction to certain substances such as fragrances, dyes, and soaps. Symptoms include hives, rash, itching, and anaphylaxis.
7. Mold Allergies – Mold allergies are an immune system reaction to mold spores that are found in the air and on surfaces. Symptoms include sneezing, coughing, and itchy eyes.
8. Pet Allergies – Pet allergies are an immune system reaction to proteins found in the saliva, urine, and dander of cats, dogs, and other animals. Symptoms include sneezing, coughing, and itchy eyes.
9. Latex Allergies – Latex allergies are an immune system reaction to proteins found in latex, a rubber-like material found in gloves, balloons, and medical products. Symptoms include hives, rash, itching, and anaphylaxis.
Allergies can be managed with medications, avoidance of the allergen, or both. It is important to identify the allergy and its triggers and to recognize the symptoms of an allergic reaction. If you think you may have an allergy, it is important to talk to your doctor.
