Last updated on : 17 Mar, 2025
Read time : 8 min
Allergies are among the most common health conditions, affecting millions of people worldwide. They occur when the immune system overreacts to substances that are usually harmless, such as pollen, dust, pet dander, or certain foods. These allergic reactions can range from mild symptoms like sneezing and itching to severe, life-threatening conditions such as anaphylaxis.
In this blog, we’ll explore the seven most common types of allergies, including seasonal allergies, food allergies, drug allergies, skin allergies, insect sting allergies, pet allergies, and mold allergies. You’ll also learn about their causes, symptoms, and effective management strategies to help you minimize discomfort and improve your quality of life.
Allergies happen when the immune system reacts too strongly to substances that are usually harmless.
The first time someone comes into contact with an allergen, they may not have any reaction. However, over time, the immune system becomes more sensitive to it. Once the immune system recognizes the allergen, it starts producing antibodies to fight it whenever exposure happens. This process is called sensitization.
Some allergies occur only at certain times of the year. For example, hay fever is worse in spring (April-May) when tree and grass pollen levels are high. As pollen levels rise, allergy symptoms can become more severe.
Allergens are classified under two categories host and environmental factors. Host factors comprise the following factors genetic, gender, race, and age, while the genetic factor is the most important. On the other hand, the environmental factors comprise pollens, pollution, dust, animal fur or dander.
Allergens are things that induce allergic reactions.
Common allergens that lead to allergic reactions are:
People can be allergic to foods, medications, insect stings, or pollen, causing reactions ranging from mild to severe. Some require avoidance, while others need treatment. Different types of allergy-causing substances are:
Food allergies occur when the immune system mistakenly identifies certain food proteins as harmful, triggering a reaction. Unlike food intolerances, they can cause severe symptoms like swelling, hives, or anaphylaxis. Even small amounts of the allergenic food can be dangerous. Food allergy symptoms may include:
Some food allergy that produces IgE presents above mentioned symptoms. However, these symptoms may be life-threatening sometimes. The symptoms of food allergy appear within 30 minutes of eating that allergy-causing food item.
The most common food items that adults or children are allergic to are:
Allergens that we breathe present in the air (throughout or seasonal) affect us, thus known as inhalants. It may set off symptoms like wheezing if a person is asthmatic.
Some symptoms of Inhalant allergy symptoms include:
Some allergens that are found throughout the year include:
Seasonal allergens are pollens that float in the air.
Certain drugs and medications end up resulting in an allergic reaction. Some common medicines that cause allergies are antibiotics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), insulin, and chemotherapy drugs.
Signs of allergy due to medicines include:
Latex allergies occur after a person comes in contact with natural rubber latex-like rubber gloves, condoms, balloons, and balls. Latex allergy symptoms like skin irritation, runny nose and breathing problem appear within minutes of contact with latex.
Read more – Skin allergy, its causes and natural home remedies
When insect sting, they release a toxic element that causes an allergic reaction. Wasps, bees, ants and hornets are insects that sting.
A toxic substance in the insect sting is also known as venom. This venom manifests the following symptoms-
Read more – Home remedy for honey bee sting
In the humid weather, we often observe Mould (tiny fungi) growing on the walls. Small pores released in the air from these moulds cause allergic symptoms like chest congestion and runny and itchy nose.
A skin and blood test can determine if they are allergic to mould. Exhaust fans circulate fresh air in the house, which helps us eliminate the fungal spores.
Many people are fond of having dogs and cats as their pets. However, their urine, saliva, dander and fur trigger allergic reactions in some.
Symptoms of pet allergies include:
The allergic reaction to the dander or the protein from the animals occurs when they lick you or scratch you, or their fur or dander stays on the furniture or clothing.
Regular bathing and brushing of pets are beneficial. Some people buy breeds that are less likely to cause any allergy.
The best treatment option for allergies is to avoid the allergen. But if it is not possible to stay away from allergens, then there are certain Over-the-counter medicine which helps to manage an allergic reaction. One should always consult a doctor before taking these medications.
Read more– 5 Best OTC medications for allergy relief
An expert doctor may prescribe immunotherapy if over-the-counter medication is not effective in managing allergies. Subcutaneous and/or sublingual immunotherapy will expose you to small amounts of allergens and gradually dosage will be increased over several months. Gradual exposure builds tolerance to the allergen.
Conclusion
Allergy is a response developed on exposure to certain allergens. If one identifies what type of allergen triggers the reaction, then treatment or management becomes easier. However, consult a doctor to know more about managing allergic reactions.
Truemeds is one such pharmacy that aims at disbursing generic as well as brand-name medicine to every corner of our country. You can now purchase the medicines from our online pharmacy Truemeds app and website. You can also buy generic or branded medication at discounted prices (save up to 72% on total purchase) and get it free delivered to your doorstep across India.
Disclaimer – This content including advice and medications provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a medical qualified opinion. Always consult a specialist or your doctor for more information.
You may have a pollen allergy if you experience sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, congestion, or coughing during certain seasons, especially in spring and fall. Symptoms often worsen outdoors or when windows are open. A doctor can confirm a pollen allergy through skin or blood tests.
The most common food allergens include milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts (like almonds and walnuts), soy, wheat, fish, and shellfish. These foods can trigger hives, swelling, digestive issues, breathing difficulties, or even anaphylaxis in allergic individuals.
A dust mite allergy can cause constant sneezing, nasal congestion, watery eyes, itchy skin, and asthma symptoms, especially in the morning or after lying down. It may make sleeping uncomfortable and increase the need for frequent cleaning to reduce dust exposure.
Yes, pet allergies can be managed by keeping pets out of bedrooms, using HEPA air purifiers, bathing pets regularly, cleaning frequently, and taking allergy medications. Allergy shots (immunotherapy) may also help in severe cases.
Yes, seasonal allergies occur during specific times of the year due to pollen from trees, grass, or weeds. Other allergies, like food, dust, or pet allergies, can happen year-round and are triggered by continuous exposure to allergens.
If you have multiple allergies, a doctor may recommend antihistamines, nasal sprays, decongestants, allergy shots (immunotherapy), or lifestyle changes to reduce exposure to allergens. Identifying specific triggers and managing them with a combination of medications and preventive measures is key.
Disclaimer
Our healthcare experts have carefully reviewed and compiled the information presented here to ensure accuracy and trustworthiness. It is important to note that this information serves as a general overview of the topic and is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, prevent, or cure any health problem. This page does not establish a doctor-patient relationship, nor does it replace the advice or consultation of a registered medical practitioner. We recommend seeking guidance from your registered medical practitioner for any questions or concerns regarding your medical condition.
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