Allergies are a complex condition that affects up to 20% of people in the United States. It is an immune system response to a harmless substance called an allergen. The body views the allergen as an invader and produces antibodies to fight it off. While some people can be allergic to more than one thing, others never develop allergies. Allergies can cause symptoms like itchy eyes, a runny nose, sneezing, and asthma.

Mold allergies
Mold allergies are among the most common types of allergies. Some symptoms of mold allergies include sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and coughing, and it may also cause asthma attacks. It can lead to anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening condition in severe cases.

A doctor can diagnose mold allergies through a physical examination and a review of symptoms. 

Treating mold allergies typically involves avoiding exposure to mold spores as much as possible. Clean up the clutter and keep the house clean. Repair any leaks or water damage, and invest in a dehumidifier to keep indoor humidity levels low.

Prescription treatment from a licensed doctor may also be followed to alleviate the symptoms.

Allergic rhinitis
Commonly known as hay fever, allergic rhinitis includes sneezing, a runny nose, and itchy eyes. It is caused by an allergic reaction to airborne particles such as pollen or dust, and diagnosis is based on symptoms and a skin prick test or blood test. Treatment for allergic rhinitis includes avoiding triggers, following a doctor’s prescription, or getting immunotherapy.

Atopic dermatitis
Also known as eczema, this type of allergy affects the skin, with symptoms of dry, itchy skin that can also have rashes, flakiness, fissures, bumps, redness, or peeling. Atopic dermatitis is caused by an abnormal immune reaction to certain substances. It is diagnosed based on symptoms and a physical examination. Treatment for atopic dermatitis can include avoiding certain soaps and other irritants and some creams and ointments.

Food allergies
Symptoms of food allergies can range from something mild like itching to severe signs such as swelling and difficulty in breathing.

A doctor can diagnose food allergies using a skin prick test or blood test. Once a diagnosis has been made, the best treatment is to avoid the offending food altogether.

Insect allergies
Insect allergies are among the most common types of allergies. They can be caused by bees, wasps, hornets, mosquitoes, and ticks. Symptoms of an insect allergy include swelling, itching, and hives. In severe cases, an insect allergy can also lead to anaphylaxis.

Insect allergies can be diagnosed by a doctor through a physical examination and a review of the symptoms. If a person has a severe reaction to an insect sting, the doctor may also recommend a skin test. This involves placing a small amount of the allergen on the skin and observing the reaction.

Fungal allergies
Fungal allergies are caused by a reaction to spores in the air and are more common in the spring and summer months.

Apart from sneezing, a runny nose, itchy eyes, and coughing, some people may experience shortness of breath, wheezing, or chest tightness.

Fungal allergies can also be diagnosed by a skin prick test or a blood test. Treatment for a fungal allergy typically involves avoiding exposure to spores and taking antihistamines to relieve symptoms. Some people may also need to use an inhaler if they have asthma.

Immune system disorders
There are a number of immune system disorders that can cause allergies. The most common type is called IgE-mediated allergies. An overreaction of the immune system causes this type of allergy to a particular substance. Symptoms of IgE-mediated allergies include hives, swelling, and difficulty breathing.

Another type of immune system disorder that can cause allergies is called non-IgE-mediated allergies. This type of allergy is not caused by an overreaction of the immune system but by a faulty reaction. Symptoms of non-IgE-mediated allergies include eczema, stomach cramps, and diarrhea.

Allergies can also be caused by autoimmune disorders, such as celiac disease and Crohn’s disease. Autoimmune disorders cause the body to attack itself, leading to an allergic reaction. Symptoms of autoimmune disorder-related allergies include fatigue, joint pain, and rashes.

Contact dermatitis
Contact dermatitis causes a red rash resulting from an allergic reaction to something that has come in contact with the skin. Common substances that can cause contact dermatitis include:

– Soap

– Cosmetics

– Jewelry

– Clothing

– Poison ivy, oak, or sumac

The symptoms of allergies are often unpleasant and can seriously impact the lives of those who suffer from them. While most people are aware of the next steps when they are allergic to something, sometimes the best thing to do to avoid a reaction is simply avoiding the allergen. This is where allergy tests come in. These tests help people determine which allergens are causing the problem, allowing them to avoid the discomfort of a reaction while maintaining their health.