Every year, it is estimated that over fifty million Americans are affected with some type of allergy. Many of these hypersensitive reactions, such as mild seasonal hay fever can be handled with over-the-counter drugs or with no treatment at all. On the other hand, some allergies can have a big effect on your life and in some cases, even become life threatening. If this is the case, you should see a doctor for a complete review and allergy testing.
Although there are number of different treatments available for allergies, most if not all only treat the symptoms and not the root cause of the problem. Well-known antihistamines such as Benadryl a.k.a. diphenhydramine, Claritin also called loratadine together with decongestant sprays such as Nasonex, are available by prescription or over the counter and do a good job in providing relief for allergy sufferers. Allergic reactions are ultimately caused by an overactive immune system and a treatment known as allergy immunotherapy attempts to offer a longer-term solution by changing how the immune system responds to various allergens. It is, in effect, a form of vaccination better known as allergy shots
Stings from bees or wasps and bites from certain spiders are not the most pleasant thing to happen to anybody. However, for some folks, the discomfort goes beyond the moderate pain that dissipates in a few hours. Insect bites and stings are toxic for everybody but they can also cause much more serious reactions in those that are allergic to the venom. It has been officially estimated that around two million people in the U.S. alone suffer from insect venom allergies.
It has been estimated that out of a population of three hundred million, almost two percent of adults and six percent of children in the US suffer from some type of food allergy. According to data from the Mayo clinic, that translates into six million adults and eighteen million children who are allergic to various elements hiding away in regular foods that we all consume on a daily basis.
Eczema, hives and other skin conditions are a common reaction in those who have a type of allergy called allergic contact dermatitis. It may be caused by sensitivity to hair dyes or perfumes. It can result from wearing rings made from certain metals like nickel or gold.
Two factors come into play with all allergic reactions. These are the allergen and the person who is sensitive to it. An allergen is any substance that causes an allergic reaction in an individual. To understand some of the common causes of allergic reactions, a little simple science is all that is needed.
