Allergies can range from a mild seasonal annoyance to a life threatening condition. There are a number of different types of allergies that affect millions of people.Some of
most common types of allergies are food allergies. The reactions to food allergies can range in severity. Some individuals experience an upset stomach or mild headache when they eat certain kinds of foods. Other people, however; have very serious reactions that can be life threatening.
Of food allergy categories, shellfish and peanut allergies are quite common and can very serious, even leading to death. Many of signs and symptoms related to food allergies include rashes, itching, nasal congestion, diarrhea, nausea, dizziness, swelling of lips, tongue and/or throat.
In very serious reactions, individual may go into shock and experience a rapid drop in blood pressure. The airway may also begin to constrict, making it difficult for person to breath. At this point, allergic reaction becomes life threatening and emergency medical help should be sought immediately.
In many cases, food allergies can be caused due to a genetic family history. Many children experience food allergies in their younger years but then eventually grow out of condition as they mature.
Some individuals also suffer from various types of drug allergies. These types of allergies most commonly include reactions to drug known as penicillin; however other types of drugs may also cause reactions. Sulfa drugs, anesthesia and insulin also cause allergic reactions in a number of people.
It is very important to let anyone treating you know if you suffer from any type of drug allergy. Many people who suffer from drug reactions and allergies also find it beneficial to carry some kind of identifying information with them to denote allergy in event of an accident.
While no one reacts well to an inset sting or bite, in some people situation can become life threatening. These individuals usually begin to experience what is known as anaphylaxis when stung or bitten. Anaphylaxis is an extremely serious medical condition in which airway becomes constricted and person is at risk for dying if medical help is not sought immediately.
Other common symptoms related to impending anaphylaxis include swelling of face and shock. Severe allergic reactions are usually associated with bites and stings from wasps, bees, hornets and yellow jackets.
Allergic reactions to latex are a problem that is not well known by many people but that can be extremely serious. Individuals can come into contact with latex in a number of ways and environments; both at home and at work. It is commonly found in many types of rubber as well as shoes, balloons, gloves, condoms and rubber bands.
The reaction related to latex exposure in a person with this type of allergy can range from mild to severe. As with all other allergic reactions, it can become life threatening if anaphylaxis occurs. Individuals who suffer from latex allergies develop it because they have been around and exposed to latex significantly at some point in their lives.
Considering that thousands of products contain latex, it may be difficult to pinpoint when and where this occurred. Some people develop problem if they have frequent surgeries because of fact that most surgical gloves are made from latex. If you suffer from a latex allergy it is imperative that you inform your doctor if you are scheduled for surgery.
