Uncover your allergy triggers

Allergies are an abnormal response of the immune system where the body's defences react to a usually harmless substance in the environment, such as pollen, animal skin and hair, or food.  Almost anything can trigger an allergic reaction, which can range from mild and annoying to sudden and life-threatening. Here are 10 of the most common triggers.

Pollen

Exposure to pollen from trees, grasses and weeds can trigger hay fever or seasonal allergies. Symptoms include sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion and itchy, watery eyes. Treatments include over-the-counter products, prescription drugs and immunotherapy. Prevent symptoms by staying indoors on hot, windy days when pollen counts are high, closing windows and using air conditioning if you have it.

Animal dander

Proteins secreted by oil glands in an animal's skin and present in their saliva can cause allergic reactions for some people. The allergy can take two or more years to develop and symptoms may not subside until months after ending contact with the animal. If your pet is causing allergies, keep it out of your bedroom, avoid carpets and wash the animal regularly. Frequent vacuuming may also help.

House dust mites

House dust mites are microscopic organisms that live in house dust. They thrive in areas of high humidity and feed on the dead skin cells of humans and their pets, as well as on pollen, bacteria and fungi. Covering mattresses and pillows, using hypoallergenic pillows, washing sheets weekly in hot water and keeping the house free of dust-collecting items such as stuffed animals, curtains and carpet can help keep indoor allergies at bay.

Insect stings

People who are allergic to stings can have a severe or even life-threatening reaction. Symptoms include extensive swelling and redness from the sting or bite that may last a week or more, nausea, fatigue and low-grade fever. Rarely, insect stings may cause anaphylaxis, with symptoms including difficulty breathing, hives or rashes, swelling of the face, throat or mouth, rapid pulse, dizziness, or a sharp drop in blood pressure. For those severely allergic, adrenaline should be administered immediately after a sting; immunotherapy may be recommended to prevent anaphylaxis with future stings.

Moulds

Moulds produce allergens, irritants and, in some cases, potentially toxic substances. Inhaling or touching mould or mould spores may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. There are many types of mould; all of which need moisture to grow. They can be found in damp areas such as basements or bathrooms, as well as in grass or mulch. Avoid activities that trigger symptoms, such as raking leaves and ventilate moist areas in the home.

Food

Milk, shellfish, nuts and wheat are among the most common foods that cause allergies. An allergic reaction usually occurs within minutes of eating the offending food. Symptoms, which can include asthma, hives or rashes, vomiting, diarrhoea and swelling round the mouth, can be severe. Avoid offending foods altogether but, if exposed, treatment with antihistamines or steroids is recommended. In life-threatening situations, an adrenaline (epinephrine) injection is needed.

Latex

Latex in gloves, condoms and certain medical devices can trigger latex allergy. Symptoms include skin rash, eye irritation, runny nose, sneezing, wheezing and itching of the skin or nose. Allergic reactions can range from skin redness and itching to anaphylaxis, a serious reaction which can cause difficulty breathing, hives or rashes and a fall in blood pressure. Those allergic to latex should wear a MedicAlert bracelet and carry an adrenaline (epinephrine) kit.

Medication

Symptoms of allergies to medications, such as penicillin or aspirin, can range from mild to life-threatening and can include hives or rashes, itchy eyes, congestion and swelling in the mouth and throat. It's best to avoid the drug altogether but, if exposed, treatment with antihistamines or steroids is recommended. For coughing and lung congestion, bronchodilators may be prescribed. For severe symptoms, adrenaline (epinephrine) may be needed.

Fragrance

Fragrances found in products including perfumes, scented candles, laundry detergent and cosmetics can have mild to severe health consequences. For most people, symptoms ease once the scent is out of range. For some, repeated exposures cause an increase in symptoms that occur more often and last longer. There's some debate as to whether fragrance reactions are a true allergy or simply a response to an irritant.

Cockroaches

Not only are cockroaches creepy, but a protein in their droppings can be a troublesome allergen. It can be difficult to eradicate cockroaches from your home, or if you live in a block of flats where bugs can pass back and forth between neighbours. Kill cockroaches by using pesticides, keep a clean kitchen and repair cracks and holes in floors, walls and windows to prevent their entry into the home.

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