An allergy is a reaction by the human immune system to anything that is not supposed to bother it under most circumstances. For example, peanuts can be ingested with no repercussions by most individuals, but can cause death to those having an allergy to peanuts.
The human body’s immune system is supposed to fight against germs to protect your body. However, when the immune system erroneously considers something to be a threat and reacts on that, it gives rise to what we call an allergic reaction.
Symptoms of an allergic reaction can be anything ranging from sneezing, itching, skin irritation, blemishes, runny nose, asthma or swelling, and the degree can vary from very minor to severe, even life-threatening. After the cause of an allergic reaction is diagnosed, medicines, allergy shots and avoidance of those particular substances causing the allergy are typically administered.
Most common allergies and their preventive measures
Pollen allergy: The symptoms for this type of allergy include sneezing, runny nose, nose congestion, watery eyes and itching. The attack happens mostly during winter. In windy days when pollen counts are high, it is better to stay indoors and avoid the wind by closing the windows.
Dust mites allergy: It is sometimes wrongly diagnosed as pollen allergy as the symptoms are almost the same. The difference is that it can attack at any time of the year. The best way to avoid this is regular use of dust mite-proof pillow and mattress cover.
Mold allergy: These are fungi, which take birth in damp places like basements and toilets. It also grows where a heap of grass is kept. The best way to avoid this allergy is to control the amount of moisture in the air. For this, the use of air conditioners and dehumidifiers can help immensely.
Animal dander allergy: This allergy is caused by a pet’s urine, saliva or dead skin cells. The best way to avoid animal dander allergy is to avoid keeping any pet in the house. The other way is to stop your pet’s access in the room.
Insect sting allergy “ It is well known that insect bites from fire ants and stings from bees and wasps can cause an immediate allergy.
Latex allergy: The allergy is the result of the presence of latex, which is a milky fluid found in many plants. This allergy is difficult to avoid as there are many uses of rubber products in our daily life like ATMs with rubber buttons, balloons, grocery store checkout belts, etc.
Food allergy: It is well known that the immune system of the body keeps you healthy, which is done by protecting your body from an attack of any alien detected by it. The food allergy happens when the immune system over-reacts. You should make a list of foods you are allergic to and make sure you avoid them.
Drug allergy: Your body may be allergic to a few drugs and get allergic symptoms. Common example is penicillin allergy. Always tell your doctor if you have a drug allergy so that he may not prescribe you a drug with ingredients that may trigger an allergy.