Allergies occur when the body’s immune system misinterprets a foreign but otherwise harmless substance as harmful and then attempts to remove it from the body. The symptoms that occurs as a result of an over-zealous immune system is called an allergic reaction. The things that trigger the reaction are called allergens. Allergens enter your body in several different ways including the mouth, the nose, the lungs, the eyes, the digestive system, and even the skin. The allergic symptoms that occur are dependent to a great degree on how an allergen enters your body.
Symptoms of an Allergic Reaction
The severity of symptoms can vary from mild to intense. Commons symptoms of an allergic reactions include:
- Itchy and Watery Eyes
- Itchy nose
- Sneezing
- Runny Nose
- Rashes
- Hives
- Stomach Cramps
- Vomiting or Diarrhea
- Swelling
- Redness
- Swollen Tongue
- Cough
- Throat Closing
- Wheezing
- Tightness of Breath
- Feeling Faint
A more severe form of an allergic reaction is called anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is an allergic reaction involving two or more of the following: the lungs, the windpipe, the digestive system, the skin, the heart and blood vessels. Because anaphylaxis may be life-threatening and often develops within minutes its presence always requires immediate, aggressive medical care. Common triggers of anaphylaxis include drug allergies, food allergies, and allergic reactions to honeybee, hornet, and wasp stings and fire ant bites.
You May Benefit from Seeing an Allergist if You Have:
- Asthma
- Anaphylaxis
- Allergic rhinitis or allergic conjunctivitis not controlled by over-the-counter medications
- Eczema not controlled by over-the-counter medications
- Hives lasting more than six weeks
- Suspicion of food allergy
- Suspicion of drug allergy