The Different Types Of Allergies

Allergies can come from many different sources and this is why it is oftentimes so difficult to come up with one treatment that covers every type of allergy. Learning about the different types of allergies can help you to 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:

- Food allergies. These allergies are to specific ingredients that are found in foods. The most common allergens that are food-related include peanuts, wheat, shellfish, cow’s milk, soy, and berries. These allergens can cause symptoms as minor as diarrhea and bloating, or as severe as death, depending upon the severity of the allergy.

- 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, anaphylaxis 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.

- 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.

- 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. This type of allergy can cause pain, itching and swelling at the site of the insect sting. In the most severe cases, an anaphylaxis reaction could occur, which could possibly be fatal.

- Respiratory allergies. This is what most people think of when they think about 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.

- Asthma. Allergy-induced asthma is definitely on the 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.

The types of allergies range from food to things in the air to insects and more. You can go for allergy testings with your doctor to determine which allergens you react to. Doing so can help you come up with an appropriate treatment plan.

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