Allergies are a very common problem that affect as much as 25% of the population. Non-food allergies are especially common in both children and adults. Most allergic reactions are mild, but in some cases they can be severe. Generally, non food allergies can be managed, and severe reactions can typically be avoided.
An allergic reaction occurs as the result of the body’s immune system having an abnormal response to a substance that is normally harmless. These substances are known as allergens, and in most people, they do not cause any problems. When someone has an allergy to the substance, however, the body sees the harmless allergen as something dangerous. Antibodies are released to rid the body of the perceived threat, and chemicals like histamine are released, causing the typical symptoms of an allergic reaction.
What Triggers Non Food Allergies
Non-food allergies can be triggered by a number of different allergens. Some of the most common include dust mites, pollen from trees and grass, mold, pet hair, and pet dander. Many people also experience allergic reactions to stings from wasps and bees, and some people are allergic to medications such as penicillin. In many cases, allergies run in families.
The exact symptoms of an allergic reaction may vary from person to person. Common signs of an allergic reaction include coughing, sneezing, runny nose, swelling, shortness of breath, and rash. Non food allergies may also cause vomiting or nausea. In rare cases, an allergen may cause severe anaphylactic shock that affects breathing and circulation. When this occurs, immediate medical attention is required.
Diagnosing Non Food Allergies
Non-food allergies are often diagnosed based on the patient’s medical history and an allergy skin test. In these tests, the skin is pricked and exposed to a small amount of an allergen. If the area turns red and swells, it is considered a positive reaction. Blood tests may also be performed to detect the presence of antibodies that are produced by the immune system when an allergen is present.
In many cases, patients are able to manage their non-food allergies by avoiding the specific allergen that causes problems. To manage mild symptoms of allergies to unavoidable substances like pollen, prescription and over-the-counter medications are widely available. Many of these medications are antihistamines that work by keeping the antibodies from producing histamine. In doing so, they prevent the most common symptoms of an allergic reaction. When dealing with potentially life-threatening allergies, the patient will be prescribed emergency adrenaline to treat anaphylactic shock.