Understanding Allergy Causes and Concerns

Posted on July 26, 2008
Filed Under Allergies |

Understanding Allergy Causes and Concerns

There are many types of allergies that people suffer with.  Some are life threatening and some are simple nuisances to daily life.  For people with allergies it is important that they know the causes and the possible concerns associated with their intolerances.  When there is a basic understanding of the conditions a person can make better choices about their medical care and treatments.

Allergy Causes

An allergy is caused by the body misidentifying a harmless substance for something harmful and overreacting to it using the immune system.  The most harmful allergies will cause an anaphylactic reaction which can be life threatening because the airways may swell stopping breathing and the heart rate may increase to dangerous levels.  The substance that causes the problems can be anything a person comes into contact with even those things which are not seen such as dust mites and mold spores.  The most common causes are pollens, dust, certain types of animals, and foods or drugs.  A physician who specializes in this field can work with a patient to determine the specific irritants that a person has.

Allergy Concerns

The most minimal concerns related to allergies are the increased mucous, itchy eyes, and sneezing that most people complain of.  These types of problems are often seasonal because of certain pollens released at certain times but may also be related to other irritants that are year round problems.  With these problems there are many over the counter medicines that can be taken or a physician may prescribe allergy shots.

Another concern with allergic reactions is skin problems.  People can develop dermatitis which is very irritating and embarrassing.  The skin can become very red, irritated, and flaky or the person may develop painful and itchy hives.  These symptoms will need to be treated to prevent further problems including infection.  There are many lotions and ointments which can help ease the discomfort but the allergy that causes the problem will need to be addressed for complete relief.

The most problematic reactions are the ones that can be life threatening including asthma and an anaphylactic response.  Any allergy has the potential to become severe enough to cause these responses but there are some that are more likely to be this severe.  Peanut allergies have caused many deaths over time in patients who did not even realize they were exposed.  Even the dust from peanuts may cause a horrible reaction in a person.  Another sensitivity which is often very unpredictably severe is to bee or wasp stings.  People with these types of problems often carry injections to counteract the life threatening response.   People that suspect they have intolerance to any substance should seek the advice of a physician to treat the problem and prevent further concerns from developing.

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