Common Types of Allergies

A number of very common substances in our environment can trigger allergic reactions.

Hay Fever and Seasonal Allergies

Hay fever produces the symptoms the general public usually associates with an allergy: sneezing, a runny nose and red, itchy eyes. Although hay fever is generally associated with pollen, it can be a reaction to many types of airborne allergens: pollens, dust, animal dander, molds and feathers.

Wind can spread tree and flower pollen over great distances: you can have an allergic reaction to plants hundreds of miles away. Needless to say, avoiding hay fever allergens can be difficult, particularly on windy days. People who react adversely to pollen often have seasonal allergies: the amount of allergen present in the environment varies according to the time of year. Animal dander, dust and molds can cause reactions year-round.

Food Allergies

True allergic reactions to foods are actually uncommon. More often, people have a food intolerance rather than an actual allergy. True food allergies are often severe: only a tiny amount of the allergen is required to trigger severe symptoms, including life-threatening anaphylactic shock.

Skin Reactions and Contact Dermatitis

Allergic contact dermatitis occurs when the skin comes into direct contact with an allergen, resulting in hives and skin rashes. Common causes of contact dermatitis include topical medications, perfumes, makeup and plants, such as poison ivy.

Although skin allergies rarely cause dangerous reactions, symptoms are uncomfortable and unsightly, and can be chronic. Click here for more specific information on contact dermatitis.

Medical Causes: Penicillin Allergy, Latex and More

Almost any medication can cause an allergic reaction. Some medications, most notably penicillin, are more likely to cause reactions than others. Generally a penicillin allergy presents as a skin rash or hives, but severe responses can include anaphylaxis. Follow this link to learn more about drug allergies

Drugs and medications aren’t the only potential allergens in hospitals or doctors’ and dentists’ offices. Hospital gloves and other medical products may be made from latex, which can cause life-threatening reactions in some people. If you suffer from a latex allergy, consider that many brands of condoms are made of latex.

Insect Bites and Bee Stings

A bee sting isn’t a pleasant experience for anyone, but if you’re allergic to bee sting venom, your life can be at risk. Stinging insects such as wasps, hornets and bees can cause intense swelling, itching and even death. Anyone with a severe bee sting allergy should practice avoidance, learn to identify areas bees like to frequent, and carry life-saving medication at all times.