Allergies can be caused by a variety of things. Pet dander, plant oils and pollen, chemicals, aromas and foods are all possible allergens. Reactions can range from mild sniffles to anaphylactic shock, where the airways in the throat begin to swell shut. Allergies can affect the digestive system, skin and respiratory system.
Antibodies are produced by the immune system and attack things that they perceive as foreign matter. Allergies are caused when the antibodies attack substances, such as pollen, and try to help the body get rid of them.
Pet Dander
Allergies to cats and dogs are probably the most common of the animal allergies. People with pet allergies are usually reacting to pet dander, old skin that sloughs off much like human dandruff. Cats also produce proteins in their saliva that can cause an allergic reaction in humans.
Plant allergies
Plants can produce allergens in two ways. Poison ivy and sumac produce oils that when touched to the skin can cause a rash, and in some cases blisters. Pollen is the most common plant allergen. Pollen is carried on plant fur, by bees and also can be suspended in the air. When a person breathes in airborne pollen, hay fever may be the result. Sneezing, itchy and watery eyes, are all possible reactions.
Chemicals
Cigarette smoke and cleaning agents, such as bleach and ammonia, are some of the allergens that fall into this category. These usually cause upper respiratory problems, such as wheezing, sneezing and difficulty breathing. They can also cause reactions on the skin as well. Hives, rashes and blistering can be caused by contact between the skin and a toxic chemical.
Aromas
Strong scents associated with perfumes and chemicals may also cause allergic reactions. Again, these types of allergies usually cause symptoms that affect the upper respiratory system and lungs. Wheezing, coughing, sneezing and difficulty breathing are normal reactions. Milder symptoms can range from watery eyes to runny nose.
Foods
Food allergies can cause digestive symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramping, diarrhea and constipation. Some food allergies can cause hives and rashes on the skin. Fruits, nuts and gluten are foods that are commonly known to cause allergies.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Allergies
- Prescription for Nutritional Healing, Phyllis Balch, 2006
