Allergies

• Airborne – pollen, animal dander, dust mites and mold
• Insect – bee, wasp and mosquito stings
• Medicine – most commonly seen with antibiotics
• Skin – latex is a common skin allergen
• Food – eggs, fish, milk, peanuts, shellfish, soy, tree nuts, and wheat

• Food allergies – A food allergy is when your body’s immune system responds to a certain food as if it is harmful to your body. Symptoms can range from mild to severe.
• Seasonal allergies – Seasonal allergies, also known as hay fever, are a common condition that affect millions of people every year. In Michigan, spring brings budding flowers, fresh grass and blooming trees. For those who suffer from seasonal allergies, however, spring also can bring itchy or watery eyes, sneezing, runny nose, post-nasal drip, congestion and sinus pain.
• Skin allergies – A variety of factors, including medications and infections, can lead to a reaction on the skin causing irritation. An allergic response on the skin appears as a red, itchy rash.
• Severe allergies – A severe reaction – anaphylaxis – is a life-threatening medical emergency and can cause your body to go into shock.

Allergy symptoms vary depending on the severity of the allergic reaction.

Mild Symptoms

Most people experience mild allergic symptoms. If they involve the sinuses, these symptoms are often mistaken for the common cold. These symptoms include:

• Sneezing
• Runny, stuffy nose
• Itchy, watery eyes
• Rashy or itchy skin

Severe Symptoms

Severe allergic reactions should always be treated at the emergency room. A severe reaction – anaphylaxis – is a life-threatening medical emergency and can cause your body to go into shock. Symptoms include:

• Tingling mouth
• Swelling of lips, tongue, face or throat
• Chest tightness, wheezing, coughing, or shortness of breath
• Nausea and vomiting
• Sneezing
• Runny, stuffy nose
• Itchy, watery eyes
• Rashy or itchy skin

Based on your specific allergy, several treatments can help you avoid your symptoms.

Types of treatment

• Over-the-counter and prescription medication
• Immunotherapy such as allergy shots
• Avoidance to known triggers
• Lifestyle changes