Allergic reactions to foods, the environment or common household substances usually become known in childhood, but they can still crop up when you're an adult. Visiting your doctor to set up proper allergy testing is the most accurate way to discover new allergies, but certain signs will likely be present beforehand. Signs of allergy, which can include skin rashes, sniffles, coughing, sneezing and eye irritation, are basically the same whether present in adults or children.
Cold Symptoms
Typical cold symptoms such as sniffles, nasal congestion, runny nose, wheezing and a dry cough can all come up in response to an allergen. Allergies such as ragweed, dust, pollen, cigarette smoke or mold may elicit this type of response. Excess mucus may put a damper on your day and make everyday tasks a little less enjoyable, but it usually isn't anything serious. Over the counter allergy medication should help clear it up, as well as staying away from whatever caused the problems in the first place.
Shortness of Breath
Asthma is a lung condition that doesn't commonly manifest in adulthood, however it is possible. Tightness in your airways makes it difficult to breathe clearly, and when other irritants such as dust are around, breathing may prove even more challenging. Visit your doctor anything you feel shortness of breath that doesn't clear up quickly, or is different from anything you've experienced before.
Intestinal Discomfort
Food allergies are a common source of intestinal bloating and pain. Unlike a food intolerance, where the food should be limited, allergy foods must be avoided altogether. Dairy products and gluten are well-known sources of intestinal problems, but just about any food you're allergic to could provoke a reaction.
Skin Irritation
Food allergy is also a prime culprit in allergic skin reactions such as hives and dermatitis. Chemicals in the environment or on your skin that you may be allergic to will manifest similar results. Hives are raised red welts which appear on the skin shortly after exposure to the allergen, and itch and cause general discomfort, particularly if you get them in sensitive areas.
Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis is the most serious of allergic reactions, and is potentially life threatening if not dealt with swiftly. Bee stings, shellfish and peanuts are often the reasons for anaphylaxis as an allergic reaction, which often happens seconds or minutes after you're exposed to the allergen. Anaphylaxis is characterized by cramping, high-pitched breathing, swollen tongue or throat and airway constriction, which can lead to death. Those who suffer severe allergic reactions which hearald the potential for anaphylatic reaction are often prescribed an epinephrine injector to carry at all times in the unforeseen event of exposure. Seek emergency assistance immediately if anyone you are with has this type of reaction to an allergen.
