Types of allergies
Food allergy
It occurs due to the ingestion of a particular food.
Produces:
- Swollen lips
- Swelling of the face, tongue and throat
- Reddish hives accompanied by itching
- Tingling in the mouth
- Explosive allergic reaction that affects the entire body
Respiratory allergies
They manifest as allergic rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis and allergic bronchial asthma.
Produces:
- Nasal congestion
- Repetitive sneezing
- Itching of the palate, eyes and nose
- Eye irritation
- Watery eyes
Skin allergies
Skin allergies are usually caused by allergens such as latex, other industrial materials, pollen, some plants, pets, etc.
Produces:
- Redness of the skin
- Intense itching
- Scales on different areas of the body
Insect bite allergy
Generally the insects that cause this allergy are bees and wasps.
Produces:
- Reddish hives accompanied by itching all over the body
- Suffocation
- Severe cough
- Pressure in the chest
- Edema or large swelling in the bite area
Drug allergy
Drug allergies can result from taking various medications. However, most allergies stem from certain antibiotics and painkillers.
Produces:
- Reddish hives accompanied by itching
- Facial swelling
- Shortness of breath
- Itching in different areas of the body
- Skin rashes
- Explosive allergic reaction that affects the entire body
Anaphylaxis
Food allergies, insect sting allergies, and other types of allergies can cause a severe, whole-body allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). This is a life-threatening medical emergency.
Produces:
- Decreased blood pressure
- Choking or severe difficulty breathing
- Loss of consciousness
- Feeling dizzy
- Vomiting and nausea
- Weak and rapid heart rate
- Skin rashes
Allergy symptoms
Although you already know several symptoms depending on the different types of allergies , below we provide a list of general symptoms so you can identify the presence of an allergy at any time.
The allergies They tend to manifest themselves a few hours after you have come into contact with the allergens . In more serious situations, allergies They can even cause anaphylactic shock, so it's very important that you contact your primary care physician or go to the nearest hospital immediately if you experience any of these symptoms. It's important to always carry the medications prescribed to control your allergies.
Some of the symptoms most frequently reported by patients are:
- Itchy nose and eyes
- Skin rash
- Edema
- Sudden hives or reddening of the skin
- Eczema
- Sneezing
- Sudden swelling of the lips, face, or hands after eating or taking medication.
- Wheezing
- Nasal fluid
- Dermatitis
- Cough
- Difficulty breathing
- Red eyes
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Conjunctivitis
- Dizziness/loss of consciousness
Allergy treatment
Once the allergens and the type of allergy you are suffering from have been diagnosed, the next step is to adhere to a strict treatment or follow some key tips to prevent the symptoms from appearing again.
Eliminating the source of the allergy is the most effective method of prevention and treatment at the same time. Of course, avoiding the allergens It is not always possible, as is the case with pollen and dust mites that are present in the environment, at home or outdoors. It is easier to avoid the source of the problem when it is nutritional or focuses on certain products-substances.
After identifying the cause, your specialist may suggest medication. Medications are intended to reduce allergy symptoms and improve the patient's quality of life. Some are usually prescribed antihistamines, decongestants, anti-inflammatories and/or bronchodilators.
Despite this, almost the only treatment capable of changing the course of the allergy is Immunotherapy , which must be prescribed and administered by an allergist. In any case, your doctor will choose the most appropriate medication for you, based on your overall medical history.
