What is An Allergy?

Allergies are the inflammations that result from the sensitivity to certain objects, called allergens. The inflammations occur when the immune system reacts to that particular object. People all over the world suffer from allergies. There are many types of allergies. The most common are seasonal allergies that are the result of certain trees, plants, or pollens in the air at certain times of the year. Other people experience allergies to particular foods or animals.

Symptoms of allergies vary by person. They are classified by degree of severity, including mild, moderate, and severe allergic reactions. While there is no cure for allergies, they can be treated. Most people experience only mild symptoms. They may include watery eyes, itchy skin, a runny nose, coughing, and hives. This type of allergy can be controlled by using an antihistamine. There are several over the counter available, as well as those you can only get with a prescription. You can help reduce the affects by remaining indoors during that time of year. You may also want to consider getting an allergy shot.

For others, the allergic reaction is moderate. Often, the reaction has spread to other parts of the body. They may find it difficult to breath. A severe allergic reaction can be life threatening. This may be the reaction to various molds. Antihistemines, steroids, and immunotherapy can all held remedy the effects.

While very rare, they are a serious matter. Generally these are the result of food allergies. Peanuts, milk, and eggs are the most common. Symptoms include swelling of the face, abdominal pain, cramps, hives, and angioedema which are hives inside the throat. It is important to seek immediate medical attention for symptoms of a severe allergic reaction. Often a shot can help offset the reaction. The hives and rashes take longer to go away. They can be reduced by using a cortisone cream.

Pet allergies are very difficult to control. It may take up to 2 years exposure to an animal to develop and allergic reaction. In addition, it can take months after you have stopped being around that animal or their dander for the symptoms to stop. This makes it hard to pinpoint the animal as they allergen because you can be fine for years, then it develops. Most people think as soon as you are away from the animal it should stop. When it doesn’t they believe it must be something else causing the allergy, so they go back to their routine of interacting with that animal.

An interesting allergy is to latex. The material is often used in gloves many people use to clean their homes. The skin often turns red and itchy. For people with asthma, a latex allergy can be life threatening because it can block the airways.

Some people have a severe allergy to insects, especially those with stingers. They may require medical attention to receive a shot of epinephrine.