Types of allergies:

There are two types of allergies: seasonal and year-round. Seasonal allergies, also known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis, are caused by airborne allergens such as pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds. Year-round allergies can be caused by indoor allergens such as dust mites, mold, and pet dander.

Allergies exist in many different forms. The 6 most common types of allergies are:

1. Food allergy: This is an allergy to a specific food or ingredient. Common food allergens include eggs, peanuts, milk, soy, wheat, and seafood.
2. Pet allergy: This is an allergy to the proteins found in an animal’s skin, fur, or dander. The most common pets that cause allergies are dogs and cats.
3. Skin allergy: This is an allergy to a substance that comes into contact with the skin. Common skin allergens include poison ivy, cosmetics, and certain metals.
4. Insect sting allergy: This is an allergy to the venom of a bee, wasp, hornet, or yellow jacket. People who are allergic to insect stings may experience severe reactions, such as anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening.
5. Drug allergy: This is an allergy to a medication or other drug. Common drug allergies include penicillin and other antibiotics.
6. Latex allergy: This is an allergy to latex, a material found in gloves, condoms, and balloons. People with latex allergies may experience symptoms such as itchiness, hives, and difficulty breathing.

What are the causes of allergies?

Allergies occur when your immune system overreacts to a substance that is normally harmless. When you come into contact with the substance, your immune system releases histamine and other chemicals that cause symptoms such as itchiness, sneezing, and runny nose.

For some people, allergies can be severe and even life-threatening. Severe reactions, such as anaphylaxis, can occur within minutes of exposure to the allergen and can be fatal if not treated immediately.

What are the signs and symptoms of allergies?

Allergies can cause a variety of symptoms, including:

• Itchy eyes
• Runny nose
• Sneezing
• Itchy throat or roof of mouth
• Congestion (stuffy nose)
• Watery eyes
• Dark circles under the eyes
• Fatigue
• Dry cough

For some people, allergies can also cause:

• Hives
• Itchy skin
• Rash
• Wheezing or difficulty breathing
• Tightening of the throat

In severe cases, anaphylaxis can occur. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening reaction that causes swelling of the throat and difficulty breathing. If you experience these symptoms, call 911 immediately.

When should I see a doctor for allergies?

If your allergy symptoms are mild and do not interfere with your daily activities, you may not need to see a doctor. However, if your symptoms are severe or persist despite over-the-counter treatments, you should see a doctor.

Your doctor can help you determine the cause of your allergies and develop a treatment plan. Allergy testing may be needed to confirm the diagnosis.

What will the doctor do for allergies testing?

There are two types of allergy tests: skin prick tests and blood tests. Skin prick tests are the most common type of allergy test. With a skin prick test, a small amount of the allergen is placed on the skin, and the skin is then pricked with a needle. If you are allergic to the substance, you will develop a raised, itchy bump.

Blood tests are less commonly used but may be recommended if you have a severe allergy or cannot have a skin test. With a blood test, a sample of your blood is taken and analyzed for the presence of antibodies to the allergen. For more information about allergy testing, visit the Allergies Test Singapore website.

How do doctors treat allergies?

The best way to treat allergies is to avoid the substances that trigger your symptoms. However, this is not always possible or practical.

There are several types of medications that can help relieve allergy symptoms, including antihistamines, decongestants, and corticosteroids. Antihistamines work by blocking histamine, a substance that causes allergy symptoms. Decongestants work by shrinking swollen blood vessels in the nose and reducing congestion. Corticosteroids work by reducing inflammation.

In some cases, allergy shots may be recommended. With allergy shots, small amounts of the allergen are injected under the skin. The amount of allergen is gradually increased over time. Allergy shots can help your body build up immunity to the allergen and reduce the severity of your symptoms.

Can I prevent allergies?

There is no sure way to prevent allergies, but there are some things you can do to reduce your risk:

• Avoiding triggers: If you know what substances trigger your allergy symptoms, try to avoid them as much as possible.
• Washing hands: Washing your hands frequently can help remove allergens from your skin.
• Cleaning surfaces: Regularly cleaning surfaces such as countertops and floors can help remove allergens from your home.
• Covering up: When outdoors, wear a hat, scarf, or other clothing that covers your nose and mouth to reduce exposure to allergens.