Before learning allergy triggers, I believe it's important to understand what an "allergy" is. An "allergy" is your body's immune system over-reacting, perceiving harmless substances such as pollen and cat dander as malicious invaders, which triggers the body's allergic reaction. Understand? Now, on to some things that can trigger allergies...
Believe it not, drugs can actually be allergy triggers. Many people develop allergies to drugs such as penicillin and aspirin. The symptoms can range from mild to serious and may include itchy eyes, hives, congestion and swelling in the mouth and throat. The best thing to do of course is to avoid the drug altogether. Also, it's always a safe bet to talk to your doctor and figure out if you have any drug related allergies to avoid unwanted scenarios in the future.
If you spend a lot of time at home and appear to have pollen allergies all year long, you may have an allergy to dust mites. The symptoms of dust mite allergies are relatively the same as pollen allergies. Other than taking the basic allergy drugs to treat, you may also help to prevent by using dust mite covers on mattresses, getting hypoallergenic pillows, washing your sheets weekly in very hot water, and keeping your house as free of dust as one can. You should also keep your home humidity between 30% and 45%
Did you know that molds are parasite fungi? They thrive on and in wet areas such as basements, bathrooms, outside in damp areas in the hay, grass and leaves! If you have an allergy to mold, stay away from consistently damp areas outside, and keep your home free of excess moisture. Keep your basements well ventilated!
The Proteins in the oil glands of animals are what cause allergic reactions between humans and their beloved pets. I'm sorry to say it, but the only way to totally get rid of an animal allergy is to get the animal out of your home. If you must keep the pet, at the very least, keep it out of your bedroom.
Yes, you can be allergic to cockroaches! The symptoms are the same as with animal allergies. To help to prevent cockroaches, have regular visits from the exterminator and keep your floors clean and garbage taken out.
Insect stings can be most severe for someone who is allergic. If you are allergic to insects, don't do or wear anything to draw their attention. Avoid bright clothing when outside. And forget strong perfume! If you have a sever allergy, see your doctor. You will need to be issued an emergency epinephrine kit to keep with you at all times.
Latex allergies are the most common allergy of all. Avoid latex at all costs. Be sure to tell your doctor before an examination, and check condoms before use! Again, if this is a serious allergy for you, see your doctor and get an emergency epinephrine kit just in case you're not paying attention all the time!
Allergies are common, but for some, controlling the allergy is literally a matter of life and death! Do you have any info on allergies to share?
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