The 10 Most Common Allergens That Can Cause an Allergy

More than one fifth of all Americans suffer from one form of allergy or another. Allergies occur in some people when their immune system reacts abnormally to a substance they encounter in the environment known as an allergen. An allergen is any substance that can cause an allergy. An allergy is a hypersensitivity reaction to a particular allergen. Symptoms can vary greatly in intensity and in some cases be life threatening. Therefore it is crucial to see an allergy professional right away if you develop any symptoms at all. Many advances have been made in recent years with the vast amount of research that has been taking place in allergy labs by allergy professionals. As a result there are now more options for treatment that can be prescribed and administered by the allergy professional than ever before. Treatments for allergies can include nasal sprays, prescription drugs, allergy shots, antihistamines, steroids and epinephrine injections for severe life threatening cases. The 10 most common allergens that can cause an allergic reaction in people are as follows.

1. Pollen is perhaps the most well known allergen. Those who are allergic to pollen usually have their most severe outbreaks from spring to autumn when the release of pollen into the air from vegetation and plant life is in abundance. Symptoms can range from and include itchy watery eyes, runny nose, sneezing and congestion.

2. Animal dander is another common allergen. Some people are not able to be around pets at all without mild to severe allergic reactions while others are not affected at all. Animal protein contained in the oil that is secreted through an animal's skin and present in their hair and saliva can cause allergic reactions for some.

3. Dust mites are another common allergen. Dust mites are microscopic organisms that exist and live off of dust that contains such things as bacteria, dead skin cells and fungi. They can be found anywhere in your home or workplace where dust collects such as in curtains, carpets, rugs, air ducts, couches, mattresses and pillows for instance. The proteins contained in the waste that are produced by dust mites can cause allergic reactions.

4. Insect stings can cause allergic reactions in people that can range from swelling and nausea to dizziness and fatigue to name a few. More severe reactions can occur that include breathing difficulty and a rapid increase in pulse rate and in some cases may be life threatening.

5. Mold and mold spores when touched or inhaled can cause allergic reactions. Mold grows in dark, damp and moisture rich places such as basements, bathrooms, showers, window areas to name a few. Certain kinds of mold can cause an allergic reaction. If you suspect mold in your home or office you can get a mold detection kit to find out if it is safe or not.

6. Food can cause allergic reactions in people and symptoms can occur within minutes after eating. The most common foods that produce reactions are dairy, nuts, shellfish and wheat. Symptoms can range from minor to life threatening.

7. Latex use can cause allergic reactions in some people that can range from skin rash and itching to anaphylaxis and in some cases be life threatening. The most common allergic reactions come from latex gloves and condoms.

8. Medication such as penicillin, aspirin which contains salicylates and certain other medicines can cause allergic reactions to some people ranging from mild to life threatening. Symptoms include coughing, congestion and swelling in the mouth and throat to name a few.

9. Fragrances found in some products such as perfumes and detergents can cause mild to severe symptoms. It is uncertain in the medical community if fragrances cause allergies or are just irritants.

10. Cockroaches produce a protein that is contained in their waste that can cause an allergic reaction.

It is crucial to consult your doctor or allergy professional for treatment and advice if you experience any unusual symptoms or allergic reactions of any kind to any of the allergens mentioned here as they could in some cases potentially be life threatening. To help best avoid allergens that can cause an allergic reaction in you consult your doctor or allergy professional for advice and preventive treatment.