How to Recognize Allergies: 7 Steps

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How to Recognize Allergies: 7 Steps
How to Recognize Allergies: 7 Steps
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Allergies and allergic reactions are quite common and often occur, just like other types of ailments. This article describes the symptoms of the most common allergic reactions and some tips for identifying the specific allergens your body is reacting to.

Steps

Step 1. Pay attention to any cold symptoms

A persistent cough could indicate a cold, but it could also be a symptom of asthma. If your "spring cold" occurs as a cough, but you don't have muscle aches or sore throats, it could be "asthmatic cough equivalent" due to allergens such as pollen, animal dandruff, dust and so on.

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Step 2. Watch out for any skin irritation

If you have a number of itchy patches on your skin, be aware that they could be insect bites or rashes from skin irritants, such as poison ivy, but it could also be some allergic reaction to cleaning products. If your hives have developed mainly in areas where clothing creates friction on the skin or adheres tightly (such as the edges of underwear), you may be allergic to latex (found in rubber bands) or to detergents you use for laundry.

Step 3. Watch out for watery or itchy eyes

This is a major allergic reaction and could be the first indication of a pollen allergy.

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Step 4. Check for edema

Your hands, face, or other swollen areas may indicate that you have eaten something you are allergic to.

Step 5. Track adverse reactions by also noting the time of day and the weather conditions present (if they can affect the disorder)

This can help you and your doctor assess which allergen you came into contact with and when.

Step 6. Be prepared if you have already suffered from allergies

If you experience an allergic reaction, have the medication on hand; make sure you always have your inhaler with you if your doctor prescribes it. Use Epipen if you have already had anaphylactic shock in the past; it can mean the difference between life and death in the event of some severe allergic reaction or anaphylaxis.

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Step 7. Make an appointment with an allergist to undergo the "patch test" and identify the specific allergies you suffer from

Advice

  • Always have allergy medications on hand.
  • If you find that you need to take your medications more than once a week, consult an allergist (the doctor who specializes in allergy treatment).
  • If you have more than one typical allergy symptom, see your doctor.

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