The Various Types Of Allergies

Allergies can come from various sources. This being the case, it is not quite easy to come up with a single treatment plan that covers every type of allergy. When you learn about the different types of allergies that you have a reaction to, you can make the best choice for you as far as treatments and prevention. Allergies can be separated into six main types. The different types of allergies include:

1. Respiratory allergies. Most people think of allergies as respiratory allergies. These can be caused by many different allergens, including dust, mold, mildew, pollen, and more. The most common symptoms of a respiratory allergy are sneezing, coughing, runny nose, dry and itchy throat, and watery eyes.

2. Asthma. Allergy-induced asthma is seeing a rise around the world. The sources for this are much the same as respiratory allergies, but the allergic response causes the air passages to become inflamed, which can cause wheezing and difficulty in breathing.

3. Food allergies. These allergens come from food. Most people react to a common list of foods. They include shellfish, cow's milk, soy, peanuts, wheat, and berries. You can get minor symptoms of intolerance such as diarrhea and bloating, or an allergic reaction as severe as death.

4. Drug allergies. The most common drug allergies that people have include allergies to codeine, penicillin, and sulfa drugs. The common allergic reaction to these medications is hives, digestive problems, or a rash. In the most severe of drug allergies, anaphylactic shock could occur and possibly even death. That is why it is so important that you report any side effects that you have to prescription medications to your physician and your pharmacist.

5. Skin allergies. This type of allergy can be due to many different sources, including foods, drugs, pollen, stress, and insect stings. The allergic reaction shows up on your skin with hives, redness, a rash, swellings, or itchiness.

6. Insect sting allergies. This type of allergy occurs when a bee, fire ant, wasp, hornet, or yellow jacket stings you and releases the poison into your body. Insect sting allergies can cause pain, itching and swelling at the site of the insect sting. In the most severe cases, an anaphylactic reaction could occur, which could possibly be fatal.

It is a good idea to keep a record of your observations as to what types of allergies that you think you have. Then, confirm this with your doctor by going for allergy tests. In this manner, you can come up with an appropriate treatment plan.