The response of the immune system to a foreign substance that typically causes no harm to the human body is known as an allergy with the foreign substances being called allergens. They may include pet dander, pollens or certain types of foods. The job of the immune system is to keep an individual healthy by protecting it and fighting against dangerous pathogens. This task is done by fighting anything that it feels is a danger to the body. Based on the allergens, the response of the immune system also differs. Allergic reactions include sneezing, inflammation, hives, rhinitis, etc.

Anaphylaxis is a reaction caused by severe allergies. This scenario can get life-threatening as it can cause problems of breathing, loss of consciousness and lightheadedness. If a person has these symptoms after being exposed to a certain allergen then they need medical attention without any delay.

The symptoms a person experiences due to their allergies may be an outcome of various factors. This includes the type of allergy the person has as well as how serious the condition is.

The symptoms of an allergic reaction like hay fever are similar to those observed in a person having a cold, such as swollen eyes, runny nose, and congestion. Only if the symptoms get unmanageable should a person seek medical help. Most of the times, they are manageable with home remedies or by taking over-the-counter drugs.

Allergies developed due to certain types of foods may cause hives, swelling, fatigue, or nausea. The person may take some time to understand that they have an allergy due to the food they have consumed. If the person suddenly experiences a bad reaction to meals they have had but they are not sure as to what the cause is then he or she should be immediately shown to a medical expert. Said experts can guide an individual through identifying the allergen, enabling them to avoid it in the future as well as get medication for the same.

Skin rashes can be a symptom of another allergy or they can also be the result of contact with a certain allergen, in which case they are skin allergies. The most commonly experienced types of skin allergies are:

• Eczema: In this, patches of the skin are inflamed and can be accompanied by bleeding caused due to severe itching.
• Rashes: Certain regions of the skin may get swollen, reddened or irritated causing it to pain as well as itch.
• Sore throat: There is an irritation or inflammation felt in the throat or pharynx.
• Contact dermatitis: In this, patches of skin will get reddened and itchy as soon as the person comes in contact with the allergen.
• Swollen eyes: The person may have puffy or itchy eyes making them look watery.
• Hives: In hives, a person’s skin has red, raised welts that are itchy and may appear to be of different shapes and sizes.
• Burning: The inflammation in the skin may make a person feel a stinging sensation and acute discomfort.
• Itchiness: The person’s skin feels inflammed and irritated.