Allergic reactions can come on swiftly, upsetting respiration, digestion and circulation. When all these effects occur at once, people may face life-threatening emergency situations. Looking for initial allergy signs and taking early treatment action can mitigate physical damage and discomfort.
In some cases, however, digestive or respiratory symptoms don't arise until it is too late to stop them. Documenting their onset and level of severity is still an important tool that helps physicians and patients manage chronic allergies.
Itching and Hives
Itchy eyes are warning signs of airborne allergens to which an individual is sensitive. Causes include pollen, animal dander and pollution. If these sources are recognized, respiratory symptoms of an allergic reaction can be curtailed by immediate avoidance and washing of the face, hands and clothing. The Cleveland Clinic notes that itchy eyes may also point to food allergies, whose symptoms don't show until the damage is already done.
Allergy signs that include raised red bumps that may be painful or itchy usually indicate a contact allergy, as MayoClinic.com relates. Hives can occur after touching poison ivy, latex, certain metals, cleaning products and other chemicals and irritants.
Swelling
Itchy eyes may also swell, indicating that the physical reaction is progressing. According to MayoClinic.com, significant localized swelling of the skin is an allergy sign of sensitivity to a particular insect sting. While this effect also arises after the fact, the severity of the symptom is a warning to avoid future contact or be prepared with treatment.
The University of Maryland (UM) Medical Center relates that swelling often accompanies itching of the eyes, lips, tongue and mouth during an allergic reaction to a food or drug. Respiratory symptoms may also develop. Individuals who were unaware of their vulnerability to health problems from a certain food or medication can discuss these symptoms with their doctors.
Digestive Signs
Symptoms related to the digestive tract usually occur soon after ingesting a food or drug that causes an adverse reaction. These include vomiting, stomach pain or cramps and diarrhea. When combined with swelling in the mouth or throat, respiratory problems such as shortness of breath may develop and affect the heart rate.
The UM Medical Center notes that these may be warning signs of anaphylaxis, which may lead to loss of consciousness. This response is important in identifying allergen sources for future avoidance.
Breathing Congestion
Respiratory symptoms are helpful allergy signs because, like itching, they warn of more serious health problems to come. MayoClinic.com lists runny nose and sneezing as being commonly associated with pollen and animal allergies. Coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath and related dizziness may accompany allergic reactions to insects, food, drugs, perfumes and cigarette smoke.
