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Allergies
What is an allergy?
An allergy is the improper response of the immune system to a specific foreign substance.
When exposed to a normally harmless substance, such as dust, the immune system reacts as
if the substance is harmful, causing uncomfortable physical symptoms. The substances that cause
this reaction are called allergens. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH),
more than 50 million people in the United States suffer from allergies a year.
What are allergens?
Allergens are common environmental substances that can be found indoors and outdoors. Indoor
allergens are present year round and are known as perennial allergens.
Indoor allergens include:
• Pet dander (animal hair, skin flakes, saliva, or urine)
• House dust mites
• Mold
• Cockroach droppings
Outdoor allergens include:
• Pollen
• Insect stings
• Grasses and weeds
What is pollen?
Pollen is a seasonal allergen and a common outdoor allergen. Trees, grasses, and weeds
produce pollen during the reproductive season of the plant. The season varies depending
on the plant; it is generally in the spring.
What are the symptoms of an allergy?
The most common symptoms of an allergic reaction are rhinitis or “hayfever.” The symptoms
are sneezing, congestion, runny nose, itchiness in the nose, roof of the mouth, throat, eyes
and ears. These allergic symptoms can turn into chronic respiratory conditions such as
asthma.
Rhinitis or “hayfever” is an inflammation of the mucous membranes that occurs when allergens
touch the lining of the nose.
Can allergies cause asthma?
Yes, asthma (an inflammation of the bronchial airways) is one of the more serious respiratory
diseases caused by sensitivity to allergens and irritants. This inflammation causes the
airways to produce increased mucus, mucosal swelling, and muscle contraction. These bodily
changes produce airway obstruction, chest tightness, coughing, and wheezing. If the
allergic reaction is acute, these changes can cause severe shortness of breath and low
blood oxygen.
What are skin allergies?
Skin allergies are bodily reactions caused by exposure to allergens and include:
• Eczema, is an allergic skin disorder often affecting the face, elbows, and knees. The
common symptom is intense itching that can turn into lesions or oozing blisters. The
most common triggers include allergens, overheating or sweating, emotional stress, eating certain
foods, and contact with irritants such as wool, pets, soaps or other substances.
• Hives are marked by a swelling of the skin accompanied by redness, and itching.
The most common cause of hives can be a viral infection. An allergic reaction to drugs,
foods, or latex may also cause hives. Some people have chronic hives that occur as a
reaction to circumstances or events. Scratching and stress can worsen the hives. Eliminating
the trigger (for example, certain food, medication, latex) is the best remedy.
• Contact dermatitis is a reaction produced by the contact of the skin with an allergic
substance causing the skin to become red, itchy and inflamed. Poison ivy is the most
common cause. Other plants, metals, cosmetics, and medications also cause a reaction.
What are food allergies?
Food allergies occur when one has an allergic reaction in response to food. Even tiny amounts
of the certain food can cause an allergic reaction in people with a sensitivity to it.
Some common food allergies are caused by: milk, eggs, peanuts, wheat, soy, tree nuts,
fish, and shellfish. Allergic reactions include intestinal disturbances, skin rashes, and
breathing difficulties.
What is anaphylactic shock?
Anaphylactic shock is the most severe type of allergic reaction which may involve the
entire body. Anaphylaxis occurs in people after they are exposed to a substance they
are allergic to. The reaction can result in trouble breathing, loss of consciousness,
and even death. Anaphylactic shock is a medical emergency that requires immediate medical
treatment and subsequent follow-up. The most common triggers are foods, medications, and
insect stings.
How can I find out what is causing my allergies?
A health care professional can diagnose allergies after a detailed health history and physical
examination. They may also perform additional diagnostic tests including skin or
blood tests, if necessary.
How can I manage my allergies?
Common indoor allergens such as cockroach droppings, pet dander, house dust mites, and
mold may be reduced. You may have to work with a health care professional to develop
a care plan to manage your allergies. This may involve taking medications. Avoid or reduce
exposure or ingestion of substances, which trigger your allergies.
For more information or referral call the National Hispanic Family Health Helpline at
1-866-783-2645.