Allergies come in many different shapes and sizes. Some people are unable to go outside in the summer without having difficulty breathing, while others are able to enjoy the beautiful weather as much as they would like. Have you ever wondered why you are allergic to some things while others are not? Doctors don’t know exactly why some people experience allergies and others do not, but they do know of a few leading causes of allergies that you can try to steer clear of to avoid an allergic reaction.
What Causes Allergies?
There are several ways that you can develop allergies at any point in your life. Allergies can first appear when you are very young, when you are a teenager or even when you are well into your adult years. Tens of millions of Americans experience allergies of some kind throughout their lives due to changes both inside and outside of their bodies.
Allergies typically occur when your immune system reacts to a foreign substance such as pollen, bee venom or food that doesn’t cause a reaction in most people. When you have allergies, your immune system works to produce antibodies that identify a particular allergen as harmful, even when it is not. When you come into contact with the allergen, your immune system’s reaction can result in your sinuses, airways and digestive system becoming inflamed.
While the reason why allergies develop is ultimately unknown, there are some substances that commonly cause people to have an allergic reaction:
- Bee stings
- Certain foods, including nuts and shellfish
- Certain medications, such as penicillin or aspirin
- Pollen or molds
- Certain plants
- Pet dander
Common Allergy Symptoms
Are you experiencing a sore throat or congested nose? Are you sneezing quite a bit? Are your eyes red or swollen? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you may be thinking you have a common cold or some other form of illness, but don’t panic – there’s a good chance you just have allergies. Here are some of the most common allergy types and symptoms:
Hay Fever, also called allergic rhinitis can cause:
- Sneezing
- Itching of the nose, eyes or mouth
- Watery, swollen eyes
- Runny, congested nose
Food Allergy
- Tingling in the mouth
- Hives
- Swelling of lips, tongue, face or throat
An Insect Sting Allergy
- A large area of swelling at the sting site
- Itching or hives
- Cough, chest tightness
- Shortness of breath
A Medication Allergy
- Hives
- Itchy skin
- Facial Swelling
- Wheezing
These are some of the most common allergies along with their symptoms, but as always, if you suspect you might be ill, its important to contact your doctor and make sure you have a professional assess your symptoms.
If you are having a severe allergic reaction, call 911 or your local emergency number to seek emergency medical help.
Live a Healthy Lifestyle at Peregrine Senior Living
At Peregrine Senior Living, you won’t have to constantly worry whether or not you have an illness or it’s just allergies, because our dedicated staff is here to help care for you 24/7. Whether you live in our independent living, assisted living or memory care communities or you receive at-home care, you will have access to a health care professional.
Our health care professionals are there to help assess your symptoms, assist with medication management and to provide you with a peace of mind that you’re being properly care for. To learn more about our services and everything we provide residents, please contact us today.
