Other Allergic disorders
Other Allergic disorders
Allergic disorders are conditions caused by an overreaction of the immune system to substances (allergens) that are typically harmless to most people. These disorders can affect various organs and systems in the body, and their severity ranges from mild to life-threatening. Below is a list and description of the main types of allergic disorders:
Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever)
Description: A chronic condition where allergens trigger inflammation and narrowing of the airways, causing difficulty in breathing.
Symptoms: Wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing, and chest tightness.
Allergic Asthma: Triggered by allergens like pollen, mold, or animal dander.
Food Allergy
Description: Immune response to certain foods, which can range from mild to severe.
Common Allergens: Peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, wheat, soy, fish, and shellfish.
Mild Symptoms:: Hives, itching, or swelling of the lips and tongue.
Severe Symptoms: Anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction involving breathing difficulties and low blood pressure.
Hives (Urticaria) and Angioedema
Hives: Raised, itchy welts on the skin caused by an allergic reaction.
Angioedema: Swelling beneath the skin, often affecting the lips, face, hands, or feet, and sometimes the throat.
Common Triggers: Foods, medications, insect stings, or latex.
Drug Allergies
Description: Allergic reactions to medications such as antibiotics (penicillin), pain relievers (aspirin, ibuprofen), or anesthesia.
Symptoms: Rash, itching, swelling, respiratory symptoms, or anaphylaxis.
Management: Avoidance of the offending drug and use of alternative medications.
Allergic Conjunctivitis
Description: Inflammation of the conjunctiva (the membrane covering the white part of the eyes) due to allergens.
Symptoms: Red, itchy, and watery eyes, sometimes accompanied by swelling of the eyelids.
Triggers: Pollen, mold, dust mites, or pet dander.
Insect Sting Allergy
Description: Allergic reactions to insect venom, such as bee, wasp, hornet, or fire ant stings.
Symptoms: Local swelling, redness, and pain at the sting site; in severe cases, systemic reactions like anaphylaxis.
Management: Carrying an epinephrine auto-injector for emergency use.
Contact Dermatitis
Description: Skin inflammation caused by direct contact with an allergen or irritant.
Common Triggers: Nickel (jewelry), latex, fragrances, certain plants (poison ivy), or chemicals.
Symptoms: Red, itchy rash; blisters; or dry, cracked skin.
Latex Allergy
Description: Allergic reaction to proteins found in natural rubber latex.
Symptoms: Skin rash, itching, respiratory symptoms, or anaphylaxis.
Common Sources: Gloves, balloons, condoms, and medical devices.
Mold Allergy
Description: An allergic reaction to mold spores present in indoor and outdoor environments.
Symptoms: Similar to allergic rhinitis—sneezing, nasal congestion, and itchy eyes.
Common Areas: Damp areas like bathrooms, basements, or places with poor ventilation.
Allergic Reactions to Environmental Allergens
Dust Mite Allergy: Reaction to microscopic mites found in household dust.
Pet Allergy: Reaction to proteins in the saliva, urine, or dander of animals.
Pollen Allergy: Reaction to pollen grains from trees, grasses, or weeds.
Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE)
Description: Chronic allergic condition where eosinophils (a type of white blood cell) build up in the esophagus, often in response to food allergens.
Symptoms: Difficulty swallowing, chest pain, and food impaction (food stuck in the esophagus).
Allergy to Cold (Cold Urticaria)
Description: A rare condition where exposure to cold temperatures triggers an allergic reaction.
Symptoms: Hives, swelling, and, in severe cases, anaphylaxis when the body warms up after cold exposure.
Sun Allergy (Photosensitivity)
Description: A condition where the skin reacts abnormally to sunlight, often due to certain medications or conditions.
Symptoms: Redness, rash, itching, or blisters on sun-exposed skin.
Perfume or Fragrance Allergy
Description: Sensitivity to chemicals in perfumes, cosmetics, or cleaning products.
Symptoms: Headaches, respiratory symptoms, or skin irritation.
