Allergies are a widespread condition that impacts many individuals and can be caused by various allergens. An allergen is any substance that triggers an allergic response in the human body ranging from minor to severe reactions. Our immune systems recognize allergens as harmful substances and overreact, leading to symptoms like sneezing, coughing, itching, swelling, and breathing difficulties; more severe reactions may even prove life-threatening. As allergens are all around us, we must recognize them to reduce the risks of an allergic reaction. Yet many people remain unaware of what causes their allergies, making managing symptoms challenging.
This article will review some of the most prevalent allergens that people must contend with. We'll provide information on these allergens and their effects and tips for managing an allergic reaction. It is important to remember that allergies can vary greatly from person to person, and anyone experiencing severe reactions should seek professional diagnosis and treatment from healthcare providers immediately.
About 1.8% of Americans are allergic to tree nuts, while, like peanuts, the severity can range from mild to severe reactions. These include symptoms similar to poison ivy, such as skin reactions, anaphylaxis; digestive pain, including abdominal cramps. Vomiting, and diarrhea are some symptoms experienced upon exposure. Tree nuts, like almonds, cashews, and walnuts are also frequently allergens, so most Americans need protection from them. These include allergic reactions with anaphylaxis effects and reactions similar to peanuts.
Shrimp, crab, and lobster are food allergens to which approximately 2% of Americans are allergic, though only 25% experience life-threatening reactions. Symptoms range from skin rashes similar to those caused by poison ivy to anaphylaxis (throat swelling that makes breathing difficult), abdominal cramps (dyspepsia), vomiting, and diarrhea - especially at restaurants. At restaurants, cross contamination could easily take place during preparation processes. To be safe when dining out, it's best to be incredibly careful if the restaurant serves dishes using shellfish.
Milk is another common food allergen that affects an estimated 2.5% of Americans. Reactions include throat swelling, difficulty breathing (anaphylaxis), skin rashes, diarrhea, and vomiting. Milk allergies tend to subside around five years of age for most children, but some continue to be affected as adults. Milk products, including baked goods, cheese, and yogurt, all contain milk which should be avoided for optimal health if allergic.
Eggs are another common allergen affecting as much as 2% of all Americans. People allergic to eggs can experience itchy skin rashes, abdominal cramps, pain, vomiting, diarrhea, throat swelling that impairs breathing (anaphylaxis), hives, and overall body swelling. Egg allergies tend to affect children more severely. Most outgrow them by age 16. Eggs can be found in many foods, such as baked goods and mayonnaise.
Soy is an allergen that affects up to 2.5% of Americans. Symptoms associated with soy allergies include:
Soy can be found in many food items, including ice cream, baked goods, and cheese. Cross-contamination may occur at restaurants as soybeans can act as thickeners/fillers in some products. Children are particularly prone to soy allergies with symptoms ranging from hives to anaphylaxis.
Allergic reactions range from mild to severe and can even be life-threatening, so we must be aware of which allergens cause a reaction and remain alert while dining out or trying new foods. For those with severe allergies, carrying an epi auto-injector and seeking medical help immediately upon experiencing anaphylaxis symptoms is vitally important to effectively manage our allergies and enjoy a happy and healthy life. Being informed and prepared allows us to manage allergies effectively and enjoy healthy lives despite allergies!
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