~ Common Allergy Triggers ~

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Uncover Your Allergy Triggers

Nearly 20% of Americans have allergies. Allergies are an abnormal response of your immune system. Your body's defenses react to a usually harmless substance, such as pollen, animal dander, or food. Almost anything can trigger an allergic reaction, which can range from mild and annoying to sudden and life-threatening. Here are 10 of the most common triggers.


Pollen



Pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds can trigger hay fever or seasonal allergies. You might have symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, and itchy, watery eyes. Treatments include over-the-counter products, prescription drugs, and allergy shots. Prevent symptoms by staying inside on windy days when pollen counts are high, closing windows, and running the air conditioning.
This is a magnified view of sunflower pollen.

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Animal Dander



Proteins secreted by oil glands in an animal's skin and present in their saliva can cause allergic reactions for some people. The allergy can take two or more years to develop and symptoms may not go away until months after being away from the animal. If your pet is causing allergies, make your bedroom a pet-free zone, avoid carpets, and wash him regularly. A HEPA filter and frequent vacuuming may also help. Allergy shots may be beneficial.

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Dust Mites



Dust mites are microscopic organisms that live in house dust. They thrive in high humidity and feed on the dead skin cells of people and pets, as well as on pollen, bacteria, and fungi. Help prevent dust mite allergies by covering mattresses, pillows, and box springs, using hypoallergenic pillows, washing sheets weekly in hot water, and keeping the house free of dust collecting-items such as stuffed animals, curtains, and carpet.

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Molds



Molds make allergens, irritants, and in some cases, potentially toxic substances. Inhaling or touching mold (magnified here) or mold spores may cause allergic reactions in some people. There are many types of mold. They all need moisture to grow. They can be found in damp areas such as basements or bathrooms, as well as in grass or mulch. Avoid activities that trigger symptoms, such as raking leaves. Ventilate moist areas in your home.

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Food



Milk, shellfish, eggs, and nuts are among the most common foods that cause allergies. An allergic reaction usually happens within minutes of eating the offending food. Symptoms, which can include breathing problems, hives, vomiting, diarrhea, and swelling around the mouth, can be severe. Avoid all foods that you are allergic to. If you're exposed to them, you may need an epinephrine injection.

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Latex



Latex in gloves, condoms, and some medical devices can trigger a latex allergy. Symptoms include skin rash, eye irritation, runny nose, sneezing, wheezing, and skin or nose itching. Allergic reactions can range from skin redness and itching to anaphylaxis, a serious reaction which can cause difficulty breathing, and hives. If you're allergic, wear a MedicAlert bracelet and carry an epinephrine kit.

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Medication



Symptoms of allergies to medications, such as penicillin or aspirin, can range from mild to life-threatening and can include hives, itchy eyes, congestion, and swelling in the face, mouth and throat. It's best to avoid the drug altogether. But if you're exposed, your doctor may recommend treating mild symptoms with antihistamines or steroids. For severe allergy symptoms, you may need epinephrine.

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Fragrance



Fragrances found in products like perfumes, scented candles, laundry detergent, and cosmetics can cause mild to severe health problems. For most people, symptoms ease up once the scent is gone. For some, repeated exposures cause more symptoms that happen more often and last longer. There's some question whether fragrance reactions are a true allergy or simply your body's response to an irritant.

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Cockroaches



Ick! Not only are cockroaches creepy, but a protein in their droppings can be a troublesome allergen. It can be difficult to get rid of cockroaches from your home, especially in a warm climate, or if you live in an apartment building where bugs can pass back and forth to between neighbors. Treat for roaches by using pesticides, keeping a clean kitchen, and repairing cracks and holes in floors, walls, and windows to stop the from entering your home.