Most Common Types of Allergies Part 1

Allergies are overreactions of the human immune system in certain individuals to generally harmless substances in the environment. Allergic reactions varies in severity -- from immediate reactions which are mostly manageable and can be prevented to anaphylactic shocks which is life threatening. Organs that are most frequently affected by allergic reactions are the skin and mucous membrane.

Here are the most common types of allergies:

Food Allergy

Food allergies occur when the body has adverse reactions to certain foods. It can develop as early in the childhood years but can also appear at any age. Some even develop an allergy to foods that they have eaten for years with no problems and suddenly there’s an adverse reaction to it.

Some food can cause anaphylaxis to some individuals which is life-threatening. Hence it is best to immediately consult a physician once you develop an unusual reaction to some food.

There are eight types of food that accounts for about 90 percent of allergic reactions. These includes: Eggs, Milk, Peanuts, Nuts/Grains, Fish, Shellfish, Wheat, and Soy. 

Skin Allergy

Skin allergies are commonly manifested by rashes, bumps, itching, redness and other skin conditions. Their causes may not be easily detectable as they can be related to various allergens, but the symptoms are mostly easily manageable. 

Two of the most common skin rashes are eczema and hives, both of which are associated to allergies. Atopic dermatitis is the most common form of eczema, and is very common in children.

Contact dermatitis is the reaction when the skin comes in contact with an irritant or an allergen, it is manifested by rashes, blisters, itchiness and burning sensation.

Pet Allergy

Pets are very common in the households, with cats and dogs as the two most common pets. However, our pets shed off material that can trigger allergic reactions. Common allergens shed by pets in the house include saliva, fur, dead skin, urine and sebum.

Insect Sting Allergy

Insect stings are immediately associated with a painful, swelling and redness bump caused by the sting. However, allergic reactions are pretty common too. It has been estimated that potentially life-threatening allergic reactions to insect venom occur in 0.4 percent to 0.8 percent of children and 3 percent of adults.

Most common insect stings that can cause allergic reactions: Honeybees, hornets, wasps, yellow jackets, and fire ants.

Insect sting allergy symptoms can range from local sting site reactions to severe anaphylaxis.

Dust Allergy

Dust allergies are commonly experienced at home, especially when cleaning as dust particles are stirred and easily inhaled. Dust allergy symptoms include wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and tightness in the chest. It may also trigger symptoms of asthma.

Check out the rest of the list here: Most Common Types of Allergies Part 2