Ways to identify an onset of allergies
The immune system reacts against foreign substances that enter the human body. They are usually harmless, but for people who are prone to allergies and have sensitive skin, the reaction can be aggravated in nature. Doctors refer to those triggers as allergens, which include pollen, animal dander, mold and particular food items like milk, fish, eggs among other things that cause irritation to the skin. Allergies can occur if your skin comes in contact with the allergens, or if you inhale or consume something that you are allergic to.
Symptoms
The allergic symptoms are based on the type of allergy and how you are exposed to them. If you have a skin allergy or a nasal allergy, there are some common symptoms:
- Fatigue
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
- Watery eyes
- Rash or hives
Food allergies can cause diarrhea, cramps and vomiting. An allergy from an insect bite would cause redness, itching and pain in the affected area. Symptoms are sometimes not noticeable. But if the condition is severe, then a fever might occur and you would need to consult your doctor.
Anaphylaxis
It is the most severe type of reaction due to allergies. The situation can be fatal and almost life-threatening. An epinephrine auto-injection is the best way to control an allergy from spreading. However, immediate medical treatment is required, or your life would be in danger.
The symptoms of anaphylaxis include:
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing
- Hoarseness in the throat
- Rashes and hives all over the body
- Tingling feeling in the hands, feet, lips and scalp
- Type of allergies
Allergies can be broadly divided into four categories:
Respiratory Allergy: It again can be further sub-divided into the following parts:
Hay fever: Also known as allergic rhinitis, it occurs from pollen grains and other substances. It is an immune disorder and is of two types – seasonal and perennial.
Spring allergies: It occurs during spring and can be controlled with the help of home remedies and medications.
Summer allergies: It occurs from the pollen of the grass and weed.
Fall allergies: Dust mites and mold are the biggest triggers of allergy during the fall season.
Winter allergies: These are indoor allergies caused from mold or dust found inside the house.
Food allergy: Consuming certain food items such as pulses, milk, egg and seafood can have an allergic reaction in a sensitive person.
Skin allergy: Some people can be allergic to the sun and would have heat burns on their skin. Latex, insect bites and dermatitis are the common causes of skin allergies. It leads to rashes, skin irritation and redness in the area.
Other allergies: It includes conjunctivitis in the eyes or allergies to drugs like Aspirin or Penicillin.
Treatment
Prescribed medication and a few restrictions are the only treatment for allergies unless it is anaphylaxis, which has a different set of therapy as the organs get affected. Being aware and exercising caution is the best way to fend off allergies.
