Types of Allergies
Runny nose, watery eyes and frequent sneezing. Hayfever sufferers will be well aware of the symptoms associated with one of the commonest allergies. But they come in many varieties and can affect almost any part of the body.
Hayfever
The type of allergic reaction you might experience will depend on what you are allergic to and how you come into contact with this allergen (like pollen, grass or dust mites).
So hayfever will tend to affect the nose, eyes and throat, while other allergies cause ‘hives’ (where skin becomes red and itchy with circular weals) and eczema (dry, red, itchy skin).
Food allergies
Children are more likely to suffer from food allergies than adults, as many allergies are grown out of in time. But some foods, like peanuts and shellfish, can cause lifelong problems, and in extreme cases, they can be life-threatening, requiring immediate emergency treatment.
Other common food allergens (substances that cause allergies) include hen’s eggs, cow’s milk, seeds, soy, fish and wheat.
Read about:
Myths about allergies