5 Things You Need to Know About Allergic Reactions

1. Eat It, Smell It, Touch It or Inject It

You get an allergic reactions in a variety of ways. You can inhale the offending substance and have reactions, like with pollen in the spring. Allergic reactions also come from food substances that are ingested. A touch to an offending item like poison ivy can give an allergic reaction. Some injected medications, like antibiotics or even bee venom, can cause allergic reactions.

2. Watch it Swell

Contact dermatitis often appears as small wheals or fluid collections on the skin. The area of contact sometimes has a rash or collection of these watery pustules. You may have intense itching if an allergen, the offending substance, touches you. Many detergents and chemicals cause contact dermatitis. Poison ivy and oak are not really poisonous, but cause reactions to those with an allergy to the plants. These are the most common allergy symptoms for skin allergies.

3. Your Eyes Swell, Too

Frequently inhaled substances, those which are airborne, can cause reactions that include sneezing and coughing. Watery eyes and a runny nose indicate that the allergen is in the area. Many types of substances can cause a reaction. Animal dander, smoke, plant pollen and even pollution, to name a few, may be the culprit of an airborne, inhaled allergy attack.

4. When to Run to the Doctor

Severe forms of allergy attacks include difficulty swallowing and facial swelling. This may be an indication that the air passage is closing. Lightheadedness and weakness should not be ignored as they, too, may be symptoms of a more dire nature. Asthma is one form of reaction to offending substances. The wheezing and difficulty breathing are red flags to immediately go to the physician. Severe food allergies can be lethal. Watch for swelling of the face, drops in blood pressure, vomiting and diarrhea. Of course, unconsciousness is never to be ignored, regardless of why the person is unconscious.

5. What to Do?

Mild reactions can be given first-aid allergy treatment at home. Clean the area of dermatitis and apply a layer of calamine lotion to reduce the itching. If the reaction comes from a bee sting, scrape the stinger out with a flat, hard object like a credit card. Pinching the stinger releases more venom. Stay calm--panic makes the attack worse. Look for signs of a blocked airway, like difficulty talking or breathing. Call for assistance immediately and begin CPR if the victim loses consciousness or ceases breathing. Listen to their speech. If the voice becomes hoarse or whispered, it is a sign the throat is swelling. Check the airway. Keep the feet of the victim elevated and keep them warm to prevent shock. Check for a bee sting kit if a sting is suspected and the allergy is already known.