Possible Causes of Allergies
It is not known why certain people have allergies to specific substances and others do not, but some allergies have a genetic link. Allergies tend to strike between the ages of fifteen and twenty-five, but they can appear at any age. Food allergies are common, as are allergies to environmental agents, such as mold, pollen and dust. Other allergens include food additives, chemicals, certain metals, animal hair, insect bites and stings, and some drugs (such as aspirin and penicillin).
Possible Symptoms and Complications of Allergies
Symptoms of allergies include nasal congestion, coughing, wheezing, itching, shortness of breath, hives, rashes, itchy eyes, headache and fatigue. There are various allergic responses (such as asthma, hay fever, rashes and acne). Stress and anger can aggravate allergies, especially in those with weakened immune systems. For some people, the symptoms associated with an allergy is just a minor irritation, but for others, allergic reactions can be life threatening. Complications of allergies include:
- Discomfort during the allergic reaction
- Disruption of lifestyle
- Drowsiness and other side effects of allergy medications
- Anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction)
Possible Lifestyle Changes for Allergies
Rotate foods to help detect a food allergy. Some common foods associated with allergies include bananas, beef products, caffeine, chocolate, peanuts, citrus fruits, corn, dairy products, eggs, oats, oysters, salmon, strawberries, tomatoes, wheat and white rice. Keep rooms free of dust and keep windows closed, especially on windy days. Use mold-proof paint on walls and furniture. Use an air filter to clear pollen, molds and dust from the home. If allergies are severe, wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts when outside, and change clothes and shower as possible after going indoors. In summer, the pollen counts are highest from 5 a.m. to 10 a.m., so schedule outdoor activities for later in the day. Do not smoke and avoid second-hand smoke.
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