Allergies, Types and Treatment

Allergies happen when your immune system overreacts to something that’s usually not harmful — like pollen, pet dander and certain foods. Symptoms can include everything from sneezing and a runny nose to vomiting and difficulty breathing. If you can’t avoid allergens, there are some medications that might help reduce your symptoms.

Types of allergies
Some common allergies include: Bee stings and other insect stings and bites Dust mites Foods Medications Molds Pets and other animals Poison ivy rashes and other contact dermatitis reactions Pollen (seasonal allergies).

Symptoms and Causes
Symptoms of allergies: Allergies can cause a range of symptoms, including: Skin rash or hives, Itchy skin, Sneezing, Stuffy or runny nose, Cough, Wheezing, Itchy, watery eyes, Swelling of your face, lips, tongue or throat, Difficulty breathing or swallowing, Vomiting or diarrhea, Low blood pressure.

Symptoms often depend on how you’re exposed to an allergen. For instance, if you touch something you’re allergic to, you might get an itchy rash. If you’re allergic to pollen or pet dander, you usually get a runny nose or sneeze when you breathe them in. Food and drug allergies and bee stings are more likely to cause severe reactions, like airway swelling and vomiting.