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Signs you are having ALLERGIC Reactions | 16th June, 2017

Allergy symptoms occur when your immune system overreacts to something that is harmless to most people but triggers a reaction in anyone sensitive to it. This substance is known as an allergen.

Allergies can be seasonal (worsening during certain times of the year, such as pollen allergies in the spring) or perennial (occurring year-round). Common allergens include weed or grass pollen, dust mites, animal dander, mold, insect stings and a variety of food types, such as eggs, shellfish, nuts and grains. If you come in contact with something to which you are allergic, your immune system considers it dangerous and releases a chemical called histamine to counteract it..

The release of histamine can cause a variety of symptoms, including a skin rash, headache, sneezing, runny nose, swelling, nausea and diarrhea. The most severe reaction, known as anaphylaxis, can be life-threatening.

If the allergen is something you breathe in, your reaction will most likely affect your eyes, nose and lungs. If the allergen is something you consume, you are more likely to have symptoms in your mouth, stomach and intestines.
 
What causes an allergic reaction?
Doctors do not know why some people experience allergies. Allergies appear to run in families and can be inherited. If you have a close family member who has allergies, you are at greater risk for developing allergies.
 
Although the reasons why allergies develop are not known, there are some substances that commonly cause an allergic reaction. People who have allergies are typically allergic to one or more of the following:
 
  • pet dander
  • bee stings or bites from other insects
  • certain foods, including nuts or shellfish
  • certain medications, such as penicillin or aspirin
  • certain plants
  • pollen or molds
 
What are the symptoms of an allergic reaction?
The symptoms of an allergic reaction can vary from mild to severe. If you become exposed to an allergen for the first time, your symptoms may be mild. These symptoms may get worse if you repeatedly come into contact with the allergen.
 
Symptoms of a mild allergic reaction can include:
 
  • hives (itchy red spots on the skin)
  • itching
  • nasal congestion (known as rhinitis)
  • rash
  • scratchy throat
  • watery or itchy eyes
Severe allergic reactions can cause the following symptoms:
 
  • abdominal cramping or pain
  • pain or tightness in the chest
  • diarrhea
  • difficulty swallowing
  • dizziness (vertigo)
  • fear or anxiety
  • flushing of the face
  • nausea or vomiting
  • heart palpitations
  • swelling of the face, eyes, or tongue
  • weakness
  • wheezing
  • difficulty breathing
  • unconsciousness
A severe and sudden allergic reaction can develop within seconds after exposure to an allergen. This type of reaction is known as anaphylaxis and results in life-threatening symptoms, including swelling of the airway, inability to breathe, and a sudden and severe drop in blood pressure. If you experience this type of allergic reaction, seek immediate emergency help. Without treatment, this condition can result 
in death within 15 minutes.
 
How is an allergic reaction treated?
If you experience an allergic reaction and you do not know what is causing it, you may need to see your doctor to determine what the cause of your allergy. If you have a known allergy and experience symptoms, you may not need to seek medical care if your symptoms are mild. In most cases, over-the-counter antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl), can be effective for controlling mild allergic 
 
reactions.
  • Lay the person flat on their back.
  • Elevate the person’s legs.
  • Cover the person with a blanket.
This will help prevent shock.
 
How can you prevent an allergic reaction?
Once you identify your allergy, you can:
 
  • Avoid exposure to the allergen.
  • Seek medical care if you are exposed to the allergen.
  • Carry medications to treat anaphylaxis.
You may not be able to avoid an allergic reaction completely, but these steps can help you to prevent future allergic reactions.
 
Your Health is our concern!
 
Mawuena Workartey/ ghanahospitals.org

     
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