Allergic reactions can be caused by either genetic disorders or infections due to certain conditions or exposures which leads to a defect in the immune system. This makes one’s ability to know if you’re allergic or not difficult. However various signs and symptoms gives you details about your condition.
Content
- Overview
- Signs and symptoms you are allergic
Overview
Your immune system has the core responsible for defending the body against bacteria and viruses. In some cases, your immune system will defend against substances that typically don’t pose a threat to the human body. These substances are known as allergens, and when your body reacts to them, it causes an allergic reaction.
Although the reasons why allergies develop aren’t clearly known, there are some substances that commonly cause an allergic reaction. People who have allergies are typically allergic to one or more of the following:
- certain plants
- certain foods, including nuts or shellfish
- certain drugs, such as penicillin or aspirin
- pet dander
- pollen or molds
Signs and symptoms you are allergic
The symptoms of allergies can sometimes resemble those of other conditions. The most common cold and the flu can sometimes cause respiratory symptoms that are similar to allergies. Often, allergy symptoms are associated with a specific time of year, such as pollen allergies in the spring or perennial (occurring year-round) at any time of exposure to an allergen.
If you experience the following symptoms when exposed to the allergen you are likely to be allergic and the symptoms may range from mild to severer
Symptoms of a mild allergic reaction can include:
- hives (itchy red spots on the skin)
- watery or itchy eyes
- rash
- itching
- scratchy throat
- Nasal congestion.
Severe allergic reactions can cause the following symptoms:
- diarrhea
- difficulty swallowing
- abdominal cramping or pain
- nausea or vomiting
- fear or anxiety
- pain or tightness in the chest
- flushing of the face
- dizziness (vertigo)
If the allergen is something you breathe in, your reaction will most likely affect your nose, eyes and lungs. In the case the allergen is something you consume, you’re more likely to have symptoms in your mouth, stomach and intestines.
