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More and more people suffer from allergies. It is estimated that in highly industrialized countries, allergies are present in 30 percent. population. Allergy is a hypersensitivity of the body to allergens, i.e. substances that cause an adverse reaction, although under normal conditions they should not pose a threat to the body. The same allergens do not cause any ailments in healthy people.
Basic types of allergies
We distinguish three basic types of allergies due to the way the allergen penetrates the body: food, contact and inhalation, as well as drug allergy and insect venom allergy. While in the case of food and contact allergies, knowing the allergen which sensitizes it, it is possible to largely (or even completely) eliminate it and thus avoid annoying symptoms, it is much more difficult with inhalation allergy. We never know what microscopic allergens can float in the air we breathe. The most allergenic allergens are pollen and dust, but there are also factors that trigger allergies.
What can cause allergic reactions?
- Animals. When talking about animal hair, cat or dog hair clearly comes to mind. But the cause of allergies can also be a hamster, mouse, guinea pig or any other favorite animal Strong animal allergens they are contained not only in the hair, but also in the saliva of animals, urine and epidermis. Before the planned purchase of a pet, it is worth checking if we are not allergic to it. All natural fur products are also a threat to allergy sufferers.
- Perfume. They amaze some people, while others give them a headache. Both synthetic and natural components are used in the production of perfumes. And it is the natural components (rose oil, lavender oil, menthol, coumarin, lime or targeniki) that can cause allergic reactions in allergy sufferers. Before buying perfume, it is best to spray the area of the skin on the forearm with a tester. If there are no changes after 24 hours, then the purchase can be made. People who are allergic should avoid fragrances with hints of fruit and flowers.
- Mushrooms. Microscopic mold fungi, most commonly of the genus Alternaria and Cladosporium, are common allergens. They sensitize not only spores, but also hyphae. An allergic reaction in people hypersensitive to fungi may be seasonal (in summer and autumn, when the number of spores in the air increases) or all year round. Mushrooms thrive best in humid environments. People who are hypersensitive to mold fungi should avoid damp and / or badly ventilated rooms.
- Latex. It is a natural product obtained from the Hevea brasiliensis tree and used in the production of rubber products. The allergenic component is the proteins contained in the latex. Latex products can be both contact allergens and inhalation allergens. Latex is used in the manufacture of rubber gloves, elastic bandages, drains, catheters and droppers. Latex is particularly common in causing allergic reactions in healthcare workers.
- Washes. Feather dust easily floats in the air and is a risk for allergy sufferers. In addition to feathers, which can be filled with quilts or pillows, allergies may be caused by a live canary or a parakeet. People allergic to feathers must also avoid ornaments with feathers or stuffed ornithological exhibits.
- Wool. Natural goat, sheep and camel wool, used for making carpets or clothes, is already a strong allergen in itself. For that, some dyes used to dye wool also have high allergenic potential. It is hardly surprising that a hat or a scarf causes coughing or a runny nose.
- Chemical substances. Allergic reactions are often caused by plant chemicals in various preparations. Such substances include: vegetable oils, natural turpentine, rosin, terpenes, acetic acid, Peruvian balm and murana and derris used in ecological gardening. They are contained in such products as: paints, varnishes, stains, organic solvents, impregnating agents, fungicides.
House dust mites can also trigger allergic reactions. So if you are experiencing allergy symptoms at home, check that you are not allergic to dust. You can find a mail order study on Medonet Market.
Read also:
- Insect venom allergy – causes, symptoms and treatment
- Five factors that contribute to exacerbation of allergy symptoms
- Nickel – an unavoidable allergen?
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