Are you suffering from Allergies?

Allergies are abnormal immune system reactions to things that do not bother most other people. Are you sneezing, your eyes itch and you have a running nose? An allergy has caught you! Allergic reactions can be mild, like a runny nose, or they can be severe, like difficulty breathing. An asthma attack is the result of some severe allergy. There are many ways to relieve allergy symptoms or avoid getting the symptoms; however for this you must know the substances you are allergic to. Some of the common substances that often cause reactions are:

•  Pollen
• Dust mites
• Mold spores
• Pets
• Food
• Insect stings
• Medicines
• Basically anything really

Different types include:

• Cigarette smoke Allergy: The numerous toxic chemicals and irritants found in cigarette smoke causes allergy.
• Cockroach Allergy: Certain proteins are found in cockroach saliva and feces which can cause allergy to some people.
• Dust mite Allergy: Some people can be allergic to a microscopic organism that lives in the dust found in all dwellings.

• Food Allergy: This allergy occurs when a food triggers an abnormal response by the body's immune system.
• Grass pollen Allergy: This is a more difficult type of allergy to prevent because it is regional and seasonal.
• Hay fever: Also known as pollen allergy is one of the most common allergies in the United States. Sneezing, a runny nose, or itchy eyes are common symptoms.
• House Dust Allergy: House dust is not just dirt, but a mixture of potentially allergenic material.
• Latex allergy: This is a reaction to certain proteins in latex rubber, the product manufactured from a milky fluid derived from the rubber tree, Hevea brasiliensis. Skin rash, Flushing, Nasal, eye, or sinus problems, asthma are some common symptoms.
• Mold Allergy: Molds can be found wherever there is moisture, oxygen, and a source of a few other chemicals. When inhaled, tiny fungal spores, or sometimes pieces of fungi, may cause allergic rhinitis.
• Pet Allergy: A pet allergy is often mistakenly associated with animal fur, such as dog and cat hair. Household pets are the most common source of allergic reactions to animals.
• Pollen Allergy: Pollen allergy is a type of seasonal allergic rhinitis that typically occurs in the spring, summer, and fall when pollen grains are released from trees, weeds, and grasses. Sneezing, Coughing, Itchy and watery eyes, nose, and throat are some common symptoms.

Asthma and Allergy: Allergic asthma is a type of asthma that is triggered by an allergy like pollen or mold spores. Mild asthma episodes are generally more common. Usually, the airways open up within a few minutes to a few hours. Severe episodes are less common, but last longer and require immediate medical help. Common symptoms of asthma include:

1. Frequent cough, especially at night
2. Shortness of breath
3. Wheezing
4. Chest tightness, pain, or pressure

Common medicines for Allergy:

• Antihistamines
• Leukotriene blockers
• Decongestants
• Corticosteroids
• Cromolyn Sodium/Nedocromil Sodium
• Epinephrine

While selecting medicine read the product label and know the side effects. Particularly when treating children for allergies, it is wise to consult with your health care provider. You must contact doctor for correct kind of medicine.

Precautions to avoid allergic substances:

(Sources: nlm.nih.gov, medicinenet.com, allergies.emedtv.com, webmd.com, umm.edu)

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