Common Allergy Symptoms
Understanding Allergy Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Most Common Symptoms of Inhaled Allergens
Most common symptoms of an allergic reaction to inhaled allergens include:
Eye Symptoms
- Itchy, red, watery eyes
Nasal Symptoms
- Itchy nose, sneezing
- Nasal congestion, runny nose
- Postnasal drainage, throat clearing, cough
General Symptoms
- Feeling tired or ill
- Wheezing and shortness of breath in more severe cases
Other Types of Allergic Reactions
Food Allergen Reactions
An allergic reaction to food allergens can cause itching of the mouth, lips, swelling of the lips or tongue, “scratchy throat”, hives, generalized itching or flushing, stomach cramps, vomiting or diarrhea.
Contact Allergen Reactions
Contact allergens may cause rashes with dry, itchy skin with redness or even blistering in the exposed area.
Insect Sting Reactions
An allergic reaction to a sting from a bee or other insect can cause a local reaction with swelling, redness, and/or pain while systemic reaction may involve hives, itching, dizziness, wheezing and shortness of breath.
Symptom Severity Levels
Mild Symptoms
Mild allergy symptoms may be minimal, just making you feel a little unwell, having poor sleep or mild upper respiratory symptoms.
Moderate Symptoms
Moderate symptoms can make you feel ill, as if you've got a cold or even the flu.
Severe Symptoms
Severe allergic reactions are extremely uncomfortable, even incapacitating.
Most symptoms of an allergic reaction go away shortly after the exposure stops.
Anaphylaxis - The Most Severe Allergic Reaction
The most severe allergic reaction is called anaphylaxis. In anaphylaxis, allergens cause a whole-body allergic reaction that can include:
⚠️ Emergency Warning
Anaphylaxis may be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms can progress rapidly, so head for the emergency room if there's any suspicion of anaphylaxis.