Types of Allergic Reactions
Types of allergic reactions vary from mild, moderate and severe. The life threatening anapyhlactic type of allergic reaction occurs, it is important to seek medical attention for relief.
Allergy involves an exaggerated response of the immune system. Allergens are substances that are foreign to the body and can cause an allergic reaction. A process called sensitization occurs when a person’s immune system is exposed to enough of the allergen to make the body produce allergic antibodies to that substance. IgE or Immunoglobin E is the allergy antibody. It promotes production and release of chemicals and hormones called “mediators” into the bloodstream to defend against the allergen. The parts of the body such as, eyes, nose and skin, always have the tendency to be exposed to allergens. It is important to see the doctor in order to ascertain if symptoms are indeed allergies. Here are the common types of allergic reactions when exposed to allergens (also see Types of Allergens).
Rhinitis
Its symptoms are produced by nasal irritation or inflammation due to blockage or congestion. It is cause by an inflammation of the mucous membrane lining the nose as a reaction to the allergen. It includes runny nose, itching, sneezing, stuffy nose due to blockage or congestion.
Sinusitis
Sinusitis is an inflammation of the sinuses. It is often caused by bacterial infection. Sometimes, viruses and fungi cause it. People with weak immune systems are more likely to develop bacterial or fungal sinusitis. Some people with allergies can have “allergic fungal sinusitis.” Acute sinus disease lasts three to eight weeks. Sinus disease lasting longer than eight weeks is considered chronic.
Asthma
Asthma is a respiratory disorder that results from the inflammation and spasm of the lung’s air. The inflammation causes a narrowing of the air passages, which limits the flow of air into and out of the lungs. Asthma is not always related to allergies, so doctor’s advice is still needed. Its symptoms include breathing problems, wheezing, and coughing.
Conjunctivitis
It is commonly known as eye allergy where there is an inflammation of the tissue layers (membranes) that cover the surface of the eyeball and the undersurface of the eyelid. It is a result of an allergic reaction and may produce result to redness under the lids and of the eye overall, watery and itchy eyes and swelling of the membranes.
Atopic Dermatitis
It is commonly known as allergic eczema. When an allergen comes in direct contact with the skin, it results in an inflammation where formation of the vesicles occurs beneath the skin. This condition includes itching, redness, or dryness of the skin, rash on the face, rash around the eyes, in the elbow creases, and behind the knees.
Urticaria
It is commonly known as hives. It is an itchy skin eruption characterized by a raised mark on the skin with pale interiors and well-defined red margins. Hives is the result of an allergic response to insect bites, food or drugs. The symptoms include raised red welts and intense itching.
Allergic reactions affecting the Digestive System
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Bloating
- Belching
- Passing gas
- Stomach pain
- Cramps
- Heartburn
Allergic reactions affecting Emotions
- Mood swings
- Anxiety
- Fear
- Nervousness
- Anger
- Irritability
- Aggressive behavior
- Depression
- “Binge” eating or drinking
- Food cravings
Allergic reactions affecting Energy and Activity
- Fatigue
- Sluggishness
- Lethargy
- Drowsiness
- Lack of energy
- Apathy
- Hyperactivity
- Restlessness
Allergic reactions affecting Eyes, Ears and Nose
- Watery/itchy eyes
- Blurred vision (excluding near or far sightedness)
- Ear infections
- Hearing loss
- Sneezing attacks
- Runny/stuffy nose
- Postnasal drip
- Hay fever
- Excessive mucous formation
- Dark circles under eyes
Allergic reactions affecting Heart and Lungs
- Irregular heartbeat
- Rapid heartbeat
- Chest pain and congestion
- Asthma
- Bronchitis
- Shortness of breath
- Difficulty breathing
Allergic reactions affecting the Mind and Concentration
- Poor memory/concentration
- Lethargy
- Speech problems
Allergic reaction affecting Muscle and Joints
- General weakness
- Muscle/joint aches and pains
- Triggers Arthritis
- Stiffness
Allergic Reaction affecting the Skin
- Rashes
- Dry skin
- Dandruff
- Excessive sweating
- Acne
- Hair loss
- Irritation around eyes
Allergic reaction affecting the throat and mouth
- Coughing
- Sore throat
- Hoarseness
- Swelling/pain
- Coating on toungue (especially after waking)
- Sores on tongue, gums and lips