As per studies, as many as 50 million people in the United States suffer from some form of allergy. The symptoms of most allergies tend to be quite similar.
However, sometimes, an allergy can be potentially fatal with people succumbing to death owing to anaphylactic reactions. Therefore, it is of importance that people are aware of what they are allergic to so that preventative measures can be taken.
The thing about allergy is that it is easier to prevent than treat. All that you need to do is avoid being exposed to the triggering factor. Thus, the first step is identifying the form of allergy.
1. Food Allergy
As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, around 4 to 6% children and as many as 4% adults suffer from food allergies of some kind.
While food allergy symptoms usually appear at a young age, they can become apparent at any age. Indeed, it is possible to develop an allergy to a food item you have eaten without any issues for years.
An allergy can develop to any food item, and the symptoms vary in individual cases. Some common food items to which people develop an allergy include the likes of eggs, milk, tree nuts, peanuts, shellfish, wheat, fish and soy among others.
2. Drug Allergy
This is another common allergy experienced by many. Those who have a drug allergy can develop the symptoms irrespective of the form the drug is given in, that is, it does not matter whether the drug is presented to them in liquid, injectable or pill form.
Patients experience symptoms like skin rashes, itching, wheezing, swelling and sometimes even anaphylaxis which can be life-threatening. To diagnose a drug allergy, a drug challenge is conducted. A skin test is also an option to diagnose an allergy to penicillin.
3. Pet Allergy
If your nose starts to run or your eyes water when you come in proximity to a pet, it is clear that you suffer from a pet allergy. The pet could be a cat, dog, bird or anything else.
The thing about pet allergies is that the symptoms might become constant even if the pet is not present because the fur might have been left behind.
People suffering from a pet allergy tend to have symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, facial pain, chest tightness, shortness of breath, watering of eyes, and skin rashes.
4. Seasonal Allergy
Sneezing frequently, experiencing a runny nose or watery eyes in specific seasons is an indication that you suffer from a seasonal allergy.
The condition develops when the body becomes sensitized and reacts strongly to something in the environment. It is also often called hay fever.
The seasonal allergy usually occurs in spring, early fall and summer. This is because, during these seasons, there is a peak of airborne mold, spores, and pollens which are some of the most common aggravating factors.
5. Latex Allergy
Latex allergy can turn quite serious and, in some cases, be potentially fatal. Therefore, it is important that people suffering from a latex allergy take all the measures to avoid exposure to latex products.
Usually, a latex allergy is found to be common in healthcare workers who have to wear latex gloves frequently, people who have had quite a few surgeries, people who have frequent exposure to natural rubber latex and people who have some other allergies as well.
6. Insect Sting Allergy
It is important to distinguish between an allergic reaction to an insect sting and a normal reaction to the same as the two are often mixed. Doing so can prove to be valuable in reducing anxiety following an insect sting.
As per estimates, around 0.4 to 0.8% children and 3% adults suffer from insect sting allergies that can turn life-threatening. Around 100 deaths in a year have been reported owing to insect sting anaphylaxis.
7. Mold Allergy
Mold allergy is difficult to run away from. This is because mold can be present just about anywhere and can remain undetected with a lot of ease. Indeed, you can have fungus in your basement or cabinets and you would have no clue.
There are innumerable species of mold and there is a lot which is not visible to the naked eye. Symptoms of mold allergy could be nasal congestion, sneezing, irritation in eyes, coughing, wheezing and itchy throat.
8. Dust Mite Allergy
Drug allergies can lead to shortness of breath and aggravation of asthma symptoms including the likes of wheezing, tightness in chest and coughing. Sometimes, it can just make you feel itchy.
People suffering from dust allergies tend to have quite a bit of a hard time within the confines of their home. The symptoms tend to be at their worst immediately after vacuuming or sweeping.
To find out more about the types of allergies, you can refer to wikipedia.org.