Allergy effects differ among types of allergies and individual patients. Some people may experience one or two acute allergy symptoms, while others experience a full range of mild effects on the skin, digestive system or respiratory system. Most consequences of allergic reactions fade within a few days or weeks. Some perennial cases create continual health problems. People with extreme sensitivities to certain substances may develop anaphylaxis, a severe metabolic disturbance that can cause potentially fatal respiratory or cardiac arrest.
Rash
Poison ivy allergy effects are good examples of acute physical symptoms. Exposed, sensitive skin will form a very itchy, red, painful rash where it touched poison ivy or another allergenic substance, as the Mayo Clinic reports. The rash can be dry or drain fluid from blisters. Either type of contact rash can develop in some individuals from touching weeds, cosmetics, essential oils, dyes and paints, rubber or metal. Allergic reaction to these substances are all forms of contact dermatitis.
Hay Fever
Allergic rhinitis, also called hay fever, affects the airways and mucous membranes of the eyes, nose and mouth. Rhinitis allergy effects can arise from seasonal allergic reactions to pollen or can be ongoing due to indoor contaminants such as pet dander or dust mites. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that allergy symptoms of the eyes include redness, itching, tearing and swelling of the eyelids. Respiratory problems may include a dry cough and sore throat, runny or stuffy nose and sneezing.
Bee Sting
Moderate allergy effects from a bee sting consist of immediate pain and inflammation. The affected area will become red and swollen. The Cleveland Clinic warns that a severe allergic reaction to bee venom can produce serious respiratory symptoms, such as wheezing and shortness of breath. These progress to anaphylaxis in some people, who may respond similarly to ant, wasp or hornet stings.
Food Intolerance
Allergy symptoms of a food intolerance usually surface shortly after the person eats the food to which he is allergic. The Cleveland Clinic lists digestive upset, vomiting and diarrhea among the short-term effects. Itching and swelling in the mouth as well as stomach pain and cramping may also occur. The long-term effect of a reaction to foods such as peanuts, milk or shellfish is a lifelong sensitivity, necessitating avoidance of the food in order to maintain health.
Drug Sensitivity
Allergies to a drug also persist for life. A penicillin allergy may be alleviated but not cured with immunotherapy. Other drugs that cause allergy problems in some individuals include aspirin, antibiotics other than penicillin, barbiturates and anticonvulsants. Drug allergy symptoms are similar to those caused by food intolerance. Both of these conditions may lead to anaphylaxis, making a food or drug sensitivity a serious condition that should be monitored by a physician.
