It is very important to have an in-depth understanding and awareness regarding your allergies and their subsequent symptoms. Allergic reactions vary from mild ones to very serious type and at times, can even prove to be fatal. You need to take the necessary precautions and adopt preventive measures in order to avoid further complications.

Allergy symptoms occur due to the instant activation of the white blood cells, generally called mast cells and basophils such as Immunoglobulin E, in response to exposure to even non-toxic and safe environmental elements. It is crucial to recognize the symptoms and the early signs of an allergy in order to prevent problems. Medical experts and allergists prescribe anti-histamines, steroids, and even immunotherapy so that the body’s response to the allergen can be desensitized.

Some of the different kind of allergies are mentioned below:

Food allergy
Many people react to a large variety of foods including vinegar, soy, seafood, eggs, shellfish, cow’s milk, peanuts, wheat flour, etc., exhibiting mild to severe reactions. A reaction is generally triggered when the protein present in the food is erroneously identified by the body’s immune system as harmful. A food allergy will usually trigger some kind of reaction every time that typical food is consumed.

Food allergy symptoms are common in children, but they can manifest at any age. You can even develop a reaction to safe foods, which you have eaten for years with no problems. Food allergens can stimulate the body to go into extreme reactions such as anaphylactic shock. It is best to avoid such foods and in case of emergency, immediately consult your allergist.

Food allergy symptoms

• Upset stomach
• Constant pain in the stomach
• Vomiting
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Trouble in swallowing
• Shortness of breath
• Shock
• Dizziness
• A repetitive cough

Dust allergy
Dust allergy is caused by mites or microscopic organisms. The symptoms can persist all year round. The dust allergy can also trigger asthma, rashes, and flashes of eczema. The symptoms of dust allergy often worsen especially during or immediately after sweeping, dusting and even vacuuming since the process of cleaning stirs up dust particles. Dust allergies are also triggered by pollen grains, pet hairs, cockroaches, etc.

Dust allergy symptoms

• Runny or stuffy nose
• Sneezing
• Redness in the eyes
• Itching in the eyes
• Watery eyes
• Wheezing
• Coughing
• Tightness in the chest
• Itching and rashes on the skin
• Inflammation of nasal passages

Skin allergy
People who have sensitive skin show signs of an allergy reaction to many things like jewelry, creams, sunscreen lotions, cosmetics, etc., as soon as they come in contact with their skin. Rashes can be caused by many things, including plants such as poison ivy, or medication, or an illness such as measles or chickenpox. In order to prevent such reactions, all direct contact with the objects should be avoided. In addition, it is best to observe strict standards of hygiene and cleanliness. A cool compress or a cold shower can help to assuage a rash. Gently pat dry the affected area and then apply a safe moisturizer. Consult a dermatologist if the skin allergic reaction persists over a period of time.

Skin allergy symptoms

• Itching
• Redness
• Inflammation
• Blistering and swelling of the affected area
• A headache
• Fatigue
• Low fever
• Rash
• Round and bright red rash patch on the body

Insect sting allergy
Many people usually are prone to allergic reactions on being stung by insects namely honeybees, bumblebees, ants, wasps, etc. The insect sting injects the poison into your body, resulting in an immediate reaction such as pain, itching and localized swelling at the area of the sting. Immediate medical attention should be given if the reaction is severe, since the body can go into shock.

Insect sting allergy symptoms

• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling (in the area of sting and sometimes beyond)
• Hives
• Flushing
• Itching
• Vomiting
• Intense nausea
• Diarrhea
• Hoarse voice
• Swelling of the tongue or throat
• Impaired breathing

Medicine allergy
Many people are allergic to typical medicines such as codeine, sulfa medicines, and even antibiotics. In fact, any medicine can trigger an adverse reaction. Symptoms of a medicine allergy can appear both externally and internally. Thus, it is best to note a reaction in case you take a medicine for the first time or even the second time. A medicine allergy is different from a side effect, or toxicity caused by an overdose of medication. It is important to seek immediate medical help in case of such a reaction.

Medicine allergy symptoms

• Digestive problems
• Acidity
• Diarrhea
• Rash
• Fever
• Wheezing
• Runny nose
• Itchy, watery eyes

Allergic reactions are the body’s way of reacting to any substance which it perceives as a threat. It is important to consult an allergist to avail the right medical treatment. With proper medication, allergies can easily be controlled, otherwise, they could also be life-threatening.