The many symptoms associated with allergies are as numerous as the types of allergic reactions themselves, but some are actually common. In order to receive proper treatment, one must identify the allergic reaction.
Some airborne allergens, such as mold spores or pollen, tend to produce the symptoms below:
Conjunctivitis is a fairly common condition that accompanies several different allergies. It manifests itself as swelling and redness of the conjunctiva (membrane around the eyelid). This usually leads watery, itchy eyes. And of course, scratching only worsens the condition.
Allergic rhinitis, an inflammation of the nasal passages, is another familiar symptom to allergy sufferers. It is characterized by swelling of the mucous membranes, often accompanied by a nasal discharge. In short, a runny nose. But more than just leaking thick fluid, the swelling can lead to tenderness and pain. Congestion and difficulty breathing can also occur.
It's similar to having a cold; only the symptom persists for much longer than a few days. The underlying cause is also fundamentally different. A cold is produced by a virus. Here, the symptom is an immune system reaction to an allergen; often dust mite waste, animal dander or pollen.
Excess sneezing is both a separate symptom and often a result of allergic rhinitis. It, in turn, tends to produce and reinforce other symptoms. Histamines are released by a sneeze. They lead to the production of watery eyes and further runny nose. If the sneezing persists, an ache in the lungs and facial pain can result. In extreme cases, back pain can result from the mechanical action of the sneeze.
One or more result of all these can be sleeplessness and subsequent fatigue. Congestion, runny nose and general discomfort can make it hard to relax enough to fall asleep. Lack of rest leads to fatigue.
Wheeziness is a result of mild asthma, itself an allergic reaction. That is a consequence of the bronchial sacs becoming filled with fluid, similar to the way nasal membranes can. The inflammation makes tissues less efficient at absorbing and transporting oxygen, which results in shortness of breath. Thus, an allergy sufferer can see a cascade of interlocking symptoms.
Other symptoms are more common with food allergies.
A skin rash, itching, hives (red welts) or eczema is often experienced by those sensitive to peanuts, shellfish and other foods. The lips or tongue may swell. Abdominal pain or diarrhea are typical. Even dizziness or fainting is far from unknown.
All allergic symptoms are essentially an immune system overreaction to an allergen, usually in the environment. Though, there are genetic factors that predispose a person to allergies. Merely having one or more of the symptoms described above doesn't necessarily indicate the presence of an allergy. But, when they persist for more than two weeks, it's appropriate to seek a professional diagnosis.
James Conrad is a freelance article writer, and holds a B.A. in English Studies. He, like many people, has had to deal with allergies since childhood. James has compiled a website with lots of resources on how to deal with allergies. For more help, with allergies, including tips, articles, and videos, you can visit his webpage at http://www.allergyinformationonline.com
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