An allergy is a condition that results when the body’s immune system reacts to an ordinarily harmless substance. Substances that can cause allergies include foods, pollen, pet dander, and insect venom. Symptoms of an allergic reaction vary depending on the allergen involved but can consist of itchy skin, watery eyes, sneezing, and a runny nose. When allergens contact the skin, it can also lead to blistering and even rashes. Allergies are immune reactions that can be mild or severe. Allergic reactions are sometimes confused with intolerance reactions. Some symptoms are similar, but they occur for different reasons. Intolerance occurs when there is an inability to digest a particular food, whereas an allergic reaction is the immune system’s response. There is no cure for allergies, but Dr. Aaron Davis in Gilbert can recommend treatments that can help relieve symptoms.
Below are some of the most common allergies.
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Food Allergies
Food allergies are the most common type of allergy. A food allergy occurs when the body reacts to a particular food. The most common symptoms of a food allergy include hives, eczema, swelling of the lips and throat, and nausea. Some people may also experience shortness of breath, chest pain, and anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction. Food allergies can be diagnosed with a food allergy test. The most common food allergens include milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, soy, and wheat.
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Pollen Allergies
Pollen allergies are the second most common type of allergy. A pollen allergy occurs when the body reacts to pollen. The most common pollen allergy symptoms include hives, swelling or itching of the eyes, sneezing, and congestion. Pollen allergies are most often diagnosed with a blood test. The most common plants that cause pollen are grasses, trees, ragweed, and weed plants.
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Pet Dander Allergies
A pet dander allergy is when the immune system reacts to pet dander. The most common symptoms of a pet dander allergy include watery eyes, runny nose, swollen lips, and itchy rashes. Pet allergies are diagnosed with an allergy test or trial of giving up animals for 30 days. The most common animals that cause allergies are cats, dogs, rodents, and birds.
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Insect Venom Allergies
An insect venom allergy is when the body reacts to the venom of an insect. The most common symptoms of an insect venom allergy include hives, swelling, itchy skin, and shortness of breath. Insect venom allergies are diagnosed with a blood test or skin test. The most common insects that cause an allergic reaction are bees, hornets, and wasps.
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Eczema
Eczema is a skin condition that causes the skin to become dry and inflamed. The most common symptoms of eczema include red rashes on the cheeks, arms, legs, and back. Some people with eczema may also develop small bumps called papules, scaling of the skin, and blisters. Eczema is commonly seen in infants, but it can also affect adolescents or adults. Many triggers can cause eczema to flare up, including stress, certain soaps or lotions, wool clothing, food allergies, environmental factors, and infections.
In summary, an allergy is a condition that results when the body’s immune system reacts to an ordinarily harmless substance. Some of the most common allergies include eczema, insect venom allergies, pet dander allergies, pollen allergies, and food allergies.
