An allergy is a condition that causes your immune system to mistakenly attack your body’s tissues and sometimes causes you to have an allergy attack. An allergy is caused by the body overreacting to a substance, such as pollen, dust, mold, or certain medications. When you inhale or eat something that triggers an allergic reaction, it brings chemicals and cells called white blood cells together, which cause swelling and inflammation in the mucous membranes, skin, eyes, and lungs.

What Causes Allergies

Infections

Allergies are caused by several infections, such as the herpes family of viruses. These viruses include the cold sore virus and the chickenpox virus. It is believed that 70 to 80 percent of people who have had chickenpox will develop a lifelong viral infection. This viral infection causes a weakening of the immune system, which can result in several ailments, including allergies.

Inhalants

Inhalants are substances that can trigger an allergy attack, such as dust mites, air pollutants, and mold. In a 2011 study, researchers found that cats can be a cause of allergies. It is estimated that about one in every five people have a true cat allergy – a condition where the immune system produces antibodies called IgE against Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV). FIV attacks the cells that fight infection, and it turns the immune system against its tissues.

Medications

Certain medications, such as aspirin and penicillin, can cause allergies in some people. When your body produces antibodies called IgE in reaction to these drugs, they may trigger allergic reactions. This reaction can destroy and inflame the mucous membranes of the intestines, lungs, and eyes. For example, the most common type of allergy in children is caused by penicillin, and in adults, it is caused by aspirin. In most people, however, the allergic reaction is relatively mild and does not last for a long time.

Cosmetics

The use of certain cosmetics can lead to an allergic reaction. Studies have shown that people who use artificial fingernails may be more likely to suffer from a nail fungus infection. These individuals are nearly 50 percent more likely to develop a fungal infection. However, nail fungus is not an allergy.

Who Are at Risk of an Allergy Attack

• People who are suffering from seasonal allergies
• People who have had an allergy since their childhood
• Women who suffer from seasonal allergies
• Parents of children with allergies

Allergy Symptoms

These symptoms vary from person to person, and they include:

• Inhaled allergens such as pollen or spores can cause an allergic reaction in the eyes, nose, lungs, skin, sneezing, congestion, coughing, watery eyes, and shortness of breath. An allergy to mold can trigger these same reactions, plus skin rashes
• Insect bite allergies can trigger a reaction including itchy, swollen, or warm skin that may have pus-filled blisters
• Food allergies can result in diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and cramps
• Drug reactions can cause a rash, itching, and swelling of the eyelids, face, and tongue along with nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea

Diagnosis

Allergies are diagnosed through a medical history, blood tests, and physical examination. The blood test will determine whether you have a specific antibody in your body called Immunoglobulin E. This test also will reveal the antigen that is causing the problem. However, the symptoms of an allergy will help your health care provider make a diagnosis. Your health care provider may refer you to an allergist for further testing and other treatments.

Treating Allergies

Your health care provider may recommend one or more of the following treatments:

• Avoiding what cause allergy symptoms
• Over-the-counter medications for allergies
• Specialized allergy shots or sublingual immunotherapy to help the body lessen the symptoms of an allergic reaction

As you can see, allergies can be treated and managed effectively. Take the right steps to protect yourself from an allergy attack and get treatment if needed. With proper management, you can experience a healthy lifestyle as long as you are careful with your environment.