According to a recent study, approximately 60 million Americans suffer from allergies. Those allergies lead to about seven million primary care office visits annually, according to the Centers for Disease Control. If you think you have allergies, it’s important to recognize the signs and symptoms so you can control them. Here’s more on what allergies look and feel like.
Signs and Symptoms of Allergies
Most people recognize the most common signs of allergies–the iconic sneezing, watery eyes, and runny nose. However, did you know that there are many other symptoms which may be less familiar to you and to the general public? It’s important to identify them and what may trigger them.
These signs and symptoms affect various parts of the body and when untreated, can worsen in severity and lead to chronic fatigue. In addition, some allergies are dangerous–even life-threatening. Allergies can be life-threatening when your body goes into anaphylaxis, or an extreme reaction to a trigger like a bee sting or a certain food.
Signs and symptoms of more common allergies are:
- Sneezing
- Coughing
- Watery eyes
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing
- Runny or congested nose
- Itchy eyes and skin
- Hives (red, raised, itchy skin bumps)
- Eczema and dermatitis (skin rashes)
- Sore throat
- Swelling of the face, lips, and tongue
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal cramps
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Dark circles under both eyes
In the case of anaphylaxis, the allergic person may experience throat swelling, dizziness, loss of consciousness, and even breathing cessation. These reactions require immediate medical treatment with injected doses of epinephrine and transport to the nearest hospital emergency room.
In short, allergy symptoms can impact the entire body, and unless they are diagnosed and treated, symptoms will persist and even worsen.
Allergy Triggers
These vary from person to person, but the more commonly occurring allergy triggers are:
- Indoor and outdoor pollution
- Fragrances
- Foods
- Fabrics
- Animal dander and saliva
- Grass, tree, and ragweed pollen
- Foods, such as shellfish, eggs, wheat, and dairy products
- Cigarette smoke
- Mold
- Some medications, such as antibiotics
- Dust mites
- Latex
- Insect stings
When a person with allergies contacts a trigger, it sets off a cascade of symptoms in the body’s immune system. Due to hereditary and other factors, people with allergies have immune systems that are sensitive to specific triggers. Their bodies react to ordinary substances which other individuals find totally benign.
Why It’s Important to Recognize the Signs Allergies
Allergies can range from inconvenient to life-threatening and anywhere in between. If you have a severe allergy, it’s important to know the symptoms of an allergic reaction so that you can use an Epi-pen or see a doctor to prevent a serious reaction.
So, you should be aware of what allergies look and feel like, what triggers them, and how to be evaluated and treated.
Your Topnotch Allergy Assessment and Treatment in Georgetown, Texas
At Georgetown Ear, Nose and Throat Center, Dr. Scott William Franklin delivers the finest ENT and allergy care in the area. He is board-certified and fellowship-trained in otolaryngology, and he is passionate about helping people live well, breathe easily, and manage their allergies.
Call us today at (512) 869-0604to book an in-office consultation or request your visit by filling outour appointment request form. Come see us soon!
