An allergy is an abnormal response by the immune system to various things in the environment. Some common factors that may cause a person to have an allergic reaction may be pollen, dust mites, mold spores and pet dander. Food allergies are caused by an adverse reaction to consuming items such as milk, peanuts or fruit and vegetables. Approximately 50 million Americans are allergic to one or more items, including environmental factors, pet or animal dander and food. http://www.aafa.org/display.cfm?id=9&sub=30
Being allergic to something can trigger many actions in the body such as wheezing, coughing, watery eyes, sneezing and itching. More severe reactions may include swelling which can interfere with sight or breathing. These reactions are the body's means of trying to rid itself of the allergen or the irritant that is causing the reaction. http://www.webmd.com/allergies/guide/allergy-symptoms-types
Food allergies are common in children though they usually outgrow them. Allergies are grouped by the triggers that cause them such as indoor, outdoor, food and others. There are also drug allergies, latex allergies and allergies to insect bites.http://www.webmd.com/allergies/guide/allergy-symptoms-types
Allergy Treatments
Once it is determined that an allergy is present, treatment options can be explored depending upon the type of allergy. These options may vary from simply avoiding the allergen to having injections at the ready in case of contact with a life threatening allergen.
- For allergies that cause severe swelling in the throat, an Epipen is kept on hand to reduce the swelling and allow time for proper medical treatment. An epinephrine shot can only be prescribed by a physician.http://www.webmd.com/allergies/guide/giving-a-child-an-epinephrine-shot
- Over the counter medications such as eye drops, decongestants and antihistamines are used to calm the symptoms of allergies such as those to dust, pets or seasonal allergens such as pollen or other environmental irritants. These symptoms are watery eyes, runny nose or congestion and sinus pressure.http://www.webmd.com/allergies/guide/antihistamines-for-allergies
- Preventing reactions to common allergens can often be treated by immunotherapy or allergy shots. These shots are intended to reduce the reactions of those suffering from more than a seasonal allergy. While there is no cure for an allergy except complete avoidance, these shots can greatly reduce the amount of reaction from the body. http://www.webmd.com/allergies/guide/shots
Common Cold Or Allergies?
Determining the difference between allergy symptoms and those of the common cold are examined in this video series produced by CBS titled Allergy Alert. Allergist Dr. Jonathan Field discusses the symptoms caused by allergens and those caused by the common cold and how one can tell the difference to seek proper treatment.
Disclaimer
The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please contact a doctor before using the information presented here.
References
Fast Facts
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Common symptoms
Watery or itchy eyes, runny nose, vomiting, coughing, swelling, rash
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Causes
Allergens such as foods, drugs, dust, pollen, insect bites
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Risk factors
Family history of allergies, children have a high risk of developing allergies, those suffering from asthma
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Prevention
Avoid known allergens, keep track of reactions to determine potential allergies
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Diagnosis
Physical exam, blood test, skin allergen test
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Treatment
Avoidance, medication for symptoms, immunotherapy, Emergency epinephrine pen
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Prognosis
Approximately 700 allergy related deaths are reported in the United States with 400 due to penicillin allergies
