The 8 Most Common Allergies
Copyright 2006 Anne Wolski
It seems that almost everyone we meet suffers from an allergy of
some kind or knows of someone who does...perhaps it is because
of the amount of chemicals we use in this modern era...perhaps
it is that modern conveniences such as air conditioning or fans
can more efficiently distribute the harmful allergens throughout
our society.
It is possible for almost anything to cause an allergic reaction
but there are some allergies that are more common than others.
These are explained in more detail below.
1. Asthma
Asthma is a serious respiratory disease. This allergic
inflammation of the lungs is characterized by wheezing, coughing
and tightness around the chest, making it difficult to breathe.
It can be brought about through environmental allergens, dust
mites, pollen, animal dander, smoke and other pollutants.
2. Allergic Rhinitis (hay fever)
Like asthma, allergic rhinitis or hay fever is caused by
airborne allergens such as dust or pollen. It is characterized
by watery, itchy eyes and a runny nose. It also causes bouts of
sneezing and coughing. This is caused by the person breathing in
floating pollen which then sticks to the mucous membranes of the
throat and nose. They can also land on the sensitive covering of
the eyes.
3. Perennial Rhinitis (dust mite allergy)
Perennial rhinitis is a condition which affects the sufferer all
of the time. It is usually caused by the microscopic droppings
of the house dust mite which is breathed in, affecting the air
spaces in the nose, thus producing excess mucous. It can also be
caused by animal fur.
4. Eczema and Dermatitis
With skin allergies such as eczema and dermatitis, the skin
becomes red and itchy and can sometimes become 'weepy'. Any part
of the body can be affected. The cause of this type of allergy
varies from dust to pollen to chemicals. It can also be
triggered by heat, cold, humidity and bright sunlight.
5. Urticaria and Hives
Urticaria presents itself as raised lumps or as white patches
with reddened skin surrounding them. They are extremely itchy
and can come and go from all areas of the body. In most cases,
urticaria will subside after a few hours but it can last for
several days, causing extreme distress to the sufferer. This
type of allergy is typically from a chemical substance such as
cleaning products, hair dyes, and other chemical matter.
6. Food Allergies
A large number of people are allergic to certain foods, bringing
on bouts of stomach pain, nausea, diarrhea, wheezing, stuffy
nose, and a rash. The foods responsible are mainly berries,
shellfish, eggs, nuts, milk, corn, beans or wheat. For people
who suffer food allergies, it is necessary to avoid not only
these specific foods, but any other product made with these
ingredients.
7. Poison or Venom Allergies (such as wasp or bee stings)
The allergic reaction to venom of insects usually presents
itself in the form of hives or urticaria, tightness in the
throat and chest, and itchy eyes. The person who suffers this
type of allergy experiences more pain from a sting than someone
without an allergy. Other creatures that can cause an allergy
include ants, mosquitoes, jellyfish and scorpions.
8. Allergies to Drugs or Medications
Penicillin and Aspirin are the most common drugs to which some
people have an allergic reaction and this generally causes a
rash or hives.
In most cases, an allergic reaction is uncomfortable and can
indeed be quite stressful. It is usually not fatal and will
generally respond favourably to a treatment of antihistamines,
corticosteroids or inhalants.
However, in some cases, the reaction is so severe, it can lead
to a potentially life-threatening condition called anaphylactic
shock. This is a condition in which a person is exposed to
something to which he is extremely hypersensitive. This results
in a release of histamine into the body tissues, sending the
individual into anaphylactic shock.
Its onset is immediate and the symptoms include severe
difficulty in breathing, swelling, a drop in blood pressure, and
heart failure. The result will be fatal if the person is not
treated urgently by the injection of adrenaline.
If the person has severe reactions, it is essential that they
wear a medic alert bracelet so that those treating him are aware
of the situation and can respond accordingly.
Most allergies can be controlled by avoiding the allergen if
known. However, in some cases, it is unknown and this can be
difficult. This can be overcome by always carrying
antihistamines with you in case you have an allergic reaction to
something.
If you manage your allergies sensibly, your discomfort should be
minimized and you should be able to live a full and active
lifestyle.