Allergy Symptoms

An allergic reaction occurs, when the immune system overproduces antibodies, in response to a substance or allergen, which would not normally be considered to be harmful. So the allergen, mistakenly identified as a threat, triggers an allergic reaction that leads to allergy symptoms.

There are many different allergens that affect different people in different ways, and frequently not at all! Food allergies are quite common, as are those due to environmental factors, such as dust and smoke. People who are not allergic, are somewhat fortunate, as they do not suffer from unpleasant and health sapping allergy symptoms. However, just because some people do not suffer from allergy symptoms does not necessarily mean that they never will, as allergies can develop at any time. But that is another story!

Range of Allergy Symptoms

The range of allergy symptoms is from being fairly mild, to uncomfortable, to very severe, and occasionally life threatening. A limited range of allergy symptoms is  listed below:

Sneezing
Runny nose
Itchiness
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Swelling of tongue and throat
Loss of consciousness
Anaphylaxis (fatal in rare cases)

This range of allergy symptoms is by no means comprehensive but serves to show some of the health problems that may arise.

Cause of Allergy Symptoms

Some studies have shown that allergy may be due to genetic or hereditary factors. However, opinion is divided, and other studies are inconclusive, so the exact cause of allergy symptoms is a bit of a mystery.

Pollen from grass, weeds, and trees, is a common allergen, or cause of allergy symptoms, as millions of hay fever sufferers, amongst others, could testify. This miserable affliction frequently occurs in the spring, but may recur again in summer, so do not lower your guard!

Another common cause of allergy symptoms is dust that contains a variety of allergens, including dust mites. They are minute living creatures, and they are also unwelcome guests, as the dirty little blighters create allergic reactions, that are the cause of  allergy symptoms. They make their homes in fabrics and furnishings, including carpets, bedding, mattresses, pillows and upholstery.

Of course there are creatures in your house, which unlike dust mites, are extremely welcome, and may even be considered to be part of the family. No prizes for guessing that this refers to dogs and cats. However, you should be aware that animal dander is a well-known allergen. It is found in skin, saliva, and urine, and can be the cause of allergy symptoms. Fortunately it may not always be that serious, and it has to be a personal decision, as to whether allergy sufferers keep a pet or not. It depends on various circumstances, including the severity of the allergy symptoms.

Control Allergy Symptoms

Unless you can create a totally sterile environment, it is all but impossible to completely avoid allergens, and fullly control allergy symptoms.

Cleanliness is next to godliness, and is a necessity more than a requirement, to control allergy symptoms. So if you shower in the morning, ensure that you do so again at bedtime, to wash away any accumulated allergens. Of course your house should be kept spotless.

Try to avoid going outside during dry, and windy weather. At such times the air will be teaming with dust, so keep your doors and windows shut, not just to lock out the weather, but also the airborne allergens just waiting to get you down.  You will need to be vigilant to control allergy symptoms, but with proper management you can succeed.

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