Types of Allergies
Allergies can cause numerous symptoms, affecting people’s day to day life. It can have a huge impact on individuals making it difficult to live comfortably.
Statistics show that 40% of all children and 30% of all adults (in the US) are affected by allergies. When the immune system responds to a particular substance this is known as an allergy. This is also commonly referred to as hypersensitivity or an allergic reaction. According to The Asthma and Allergy Foundation, reports show that allergies are ranked one of the most commonly experienced chronic medical conditions within the US.
Types of Allergies
Sinusitis:
This allergy occurs when there is an infection in the sinuses. Chronic sinusitis is not always the result of an allergy; it can sometimes be caused by an allergic rhinitis or asthma.
Allergic Rhinitis:
Allergic rhinitis is when there is inflammation in the nasal passages. This type of allergy causes congestion, itchy and watery eyes.
Food Allergies:
This is when the body has a hypersensitive reaction to certain foods.
Bee Sting Allergies:
This is considered one of the most dangerous types of allergy. It is when the body experiences a reaction to a bee sting.
Causes of Allergies
An allergic reaction occurs when the body does not recognise a substance that it has come in contact with, this leads to the immune system over acting and producing white blood cells trying to kill off these foreign substances, these substances are otherwise harmless to most people.
When it comes to allergies, it is important to consider the type of allergic reaction that the person is having, this will help you figure out what may have been the potential cause of the allergy. The most common types of allergies are caused by airborne allergens (pollen, pet fur), food particles, bits and stings from certain insects. Some people may even react to specific types of substances or materials, like latex.
here is also a chance that the allergic reaction is being caused by a hidden ingredient in medication.
Symptoms of Allergies
Depending on the type of allergy, and the person who is having a reaction, the symptoms vary from person to person. If the reaction is mild and subtle then it is possible for the body to bring the symptoms under control by itself, however if the symptoms are chronic and severe then medication or some form of treatment is usually needed to manage it.
Depending on the severity of the allergic reaction, an individual can determine the type of reaction that they are having. Some common signs to take into consideration when you think you may be having a reaction are, sneezing, a stuffy nose, conjunctivitis, a tingling sensation in the mouth, hives and rashes on the skin. In some cases, the symptoms can become life threatening and cause anaphylaxis.
