What are the 5 most common allergies? 

An allergy arises when your immune system mistakenly interprets an innocuous chemical as hazardous and reacts accordingly. It is allergens that induce allergies. Allergens include specific foods, pets, pollen, dust mites, and medications. Allergies are more common in youngsters, while some fade with age. Conversely, non-allergic people can develop allergies to chemicals at any time in their lives.

1. Food allergies

A food allergy is an immune system reaction. Some foods might induce digestive difficulties, rashes, or enlarged airways in small amounts. Food allergies can cause serious symptoms, including anaphylaxis.

Food allergies affect up to 8% of children and 4% of adults. The good news is that some kids outgrow their food allergies. Food allergies and intolerances are often confused. Food intolerance is a non-immune illness.

Some people experience moderate discomfort from food allergies. Food allergies can be stressful and even lethal. Food allergy symptoms usually emerge minutes to 2 hours after consumption. Onset can be delayed by 24 hours.Typical food allergy symptoms include:

• Tingling in the mouth
• Wheezing, nasal congestion, or problems breathing
• Abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting
• Lightheadedness or dizziness

2. Pet Allergy

As much as we adore pets, pet allergies are a very real drawback to pet ownership.

Contrary to popular opinion, long, loose pet fur does not promote pet allergies. Pet allergies, on the other hand, originate when the body’s immune system reacts to pet dander (small skin particles), which contains allergenic proteins. Additionally, these proteins are detected in saliva and urine.

If you develop allergic rhinitis, asthma, or rashes after being near furry dogs, you may have a pet allergy.

If you currently own a pet, you may help prevent or ease your symptoms by routinely bathing your pet,

keeping your pet out of your sleep, and keeping your home well-ventilated.

3. Pollen Allergy (Hay Fever)

Pollen is another allergen that can cause allergic rhinitis. It is highly common and is especially frequent in children aged four to seven. As with dust mite allergies, its symptoms are similar to those of a common cold; however, the common cold is caused by viruses, whereas hay fever is caused by pollen.

Individuals who suffer from hay fever may be more likely to develop other allergy disorders such as asthma or eczema. Hay fever is treated with oral antihistamines. Nasal steroid sprays can be used to treat more severe symptoms.

4. Dust Mites Allergy

Allergic rhinitis is an allergic response to allergens in the air. Typically, allergic reactions are produced when dust mite waste products are inhaled. Sneezing, itchy eyes and throat, and a runny or stuffy nose are all common symptoms. These are typically moderate symptoms that can be managed with over-the-counter drugs such as antihistamines and decongestants.

Additional, more severe symptoms of asthma may include trouble breathing, wheezing, and severe asthma attacks. Because your bed provides a perfect breeding ground for dust mites, both utilizing dust mite resistant bed sheets and pillows and periodically washing your bedsheets are efficient strategies to keep your bed dust mite-free.

5. Drug (Medication) Allergy

Drug allergies are fairly prevalent and can be caused by prescribed or over-the-counter (OTC) drugs. Symptoms vary in severity. Among the most commonly allergenic medicines are:

• Antibiotics like penicillin
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs)
• chemo medicines

Whether you visit a new clinic, the general practitioner will usually inquire if you are allergic to any medications. It is vital to notify the general practitioner and any other medical expert of any allergies to avoid adverse reactions. Be cautious while buying OTC medications, especially if you have drug sensitivities.

Vaccines can cause serious allergic reactions in certain people. These reactions usually develop within minutes to hours of taking a vaccination.

Even a simple allergy can be fatal. To avoid significant consequences, one should be informed of their allergy’s symptoms and triggers. If you don’t know what causes your allergies or if you’re unsure if your symptoms are due to an allergy, an allergist can help you.