As our body’s defense system fights these substances, we experience symptoms of allergic reactions. It will tackle the different types of allergic reactions. The job of our immune system is to protect our body from bacteria and viruses that can cause diseases. However, some foreign invaders are harmless. These are called allergens. When our defensive system fights these allergens, it causes allergic reactions. The process goes like this:
The immune system releases antibodies that are single-minded. They protect the body from foreign invaders, harmful or not. They cannot distinguish between toxic substances from harmless substances. As these antibodies send the message to the cells, the cells produce histamines which trigger allergic reactions.
Common Types Of Allergic Reactions
- Sneezing
- Itchy and watery eyes
- Runny nose
- Itchiness in the roof of the mouth
- Hives
- Difficulty in breathing
- Rashes
- Facial swelling
Allergic reactions differ from one person to the other. For example, a food allergy person may show rashes and experience itchiness after eating food allergens like shrimps. While the other person with the same allergy to shrimps may experience stomach pain or some experience symptoms like facial and lip swelling. Some experience chest tightening after eating shrimps. These symptoms could be life-threatening and need urgent attention. Though some of the symptoms are manageable and can be treated by over-the-counter antihistamines, it is essential to learn why and what allergens trigger your allergies.
Common Allergens
- Food like: peanuts, shrimps, crabs, shellfish, eggs, chicken
- Pollens
- Animal dander
- Chest tightness
- Dust
- Some antibiotics like penicillin
- Bee stings
- Molds
- Latex
People with allergies with allergen contact in various ways; through your nose, eyes, mouth, skin contact. A person who is allergic to dust will experience sneezing after inhaling dust. Some people are also allergic to perfume scents. Some people are allergic to some cloth materials. For example, allergic to latex and rough kind of cloth. When their skin comes in contact with this type of cloth, they will experience itchiness. Usually, people with this kind of allergy only wear clothes made of cotton. You may wonder why some people have allergies while others don’t. Well, it has not yet been answered. But some experts declared that family history plays a part. It is expected that when the mother has an allergy to seafood, one of her children may inherit her allergy.
When To See Your Doctor?
Allergic reactions range from mild to severe. Mild symptoms though annoying and uncomfortable can be managed by over-the-counter antihistamines. Severe symptoms like chest tightening, anaphylaxis, and difficulty breathing are life-threatening. Therefore you need to see the doctor immediately.
