The University of Iowa Health Care defines an allergy as a reaction of the body's immune system to a substance that is not normal. The cause of these reactions is not known, however it is believed to be due to malfunctioning immune system. A variety of allergies exist, all of which require various treatments.
Hay Fever
Hay fever affects nearly 35 million Americans each year, making it one of the most common allergies in the United States. Also referred to as a pollen allergy, symptoms are most prevalent during the spring, summer and fall when the pollen counts from trees, grass and flowers are at their highest. Arthur Schoenstadt, MD of eMedTV states that the severity of symptoms can vary depending on the specific plants you are allergic to and how numerous these plants are in your area.
The most common symptoms associated with hay fever include sneezing, coughing, itchy and watery eyes, a runny or stuffy nose and eyes that are red or swollen. To diagnose a hay fever allergy, doctors typically perform skin and blood tests.
Mold Allergies
Mold allergies are most prevalent in the summer months according to the Allergy/Hay Fever Information Center. While there are literally thousands of mold types, only a few are recognized as the cause of allergies, black mold being the most dangerous.
You may not even be appear that mold is present in your home or workplace, however when you inhale the spores (the reproductive pieces of the mold), symptoms may begin to appear. Because mold is a type of fungus, some people who suffer from this allergy may notice their condition worsening when eating foods, such as mushrooms, cheeses processed with fungi and foods that contain yeast. The most common symptoms as stated by the Mayo Clinic include sneezing, coughing, itchy throat, watery eyes and an inflammation of the sinuses.
Lactose Intolerance
Lactose intolerance is an allergy to milk or milk products, and is caused by the body's inability to digest the sugar (lactose) found in these products. While this allergy typically begins shortly after the age of two, it is slow in progression. Therefore, symptoms may not present until the child reaches adolescence or even adulthood. Its most common symptoms include abdominal pain and bloating, diarrhea, gas and nausea.
Pet Allergies
Some people love animals, but are unable to be near them due to a pet allergy. While many believe that the allergy is due to the fur of the animal, the actual culprit is the protein found in the animal's saliva. Once the animal cleans itself, the slaiva sticks to the fur, thus producing the allergic reaction.
The Humane Society states that this allergy is more commonly seen in those with cats than in dogs, however allergies to dogs is still quite common as well. They go on to state that there is no such thing as an allergy-free breed; if you are allergic to animals, even the hairless cats and shaved poodles will provoke your symptoms. These typically begin within two years of receiving your animal, and do not end until six months after you have ceased to have contact with it.
