Allergic Reaction

Causes, Signs and Symptoms

Causes

When your body reacts to a trigger or allergen (which you may have inhaled, swallowed or come in contact with your skin), it produces a protein called IgE.

This protein attacks the allergen and your body will release histamine and chemicals into the blood.

At this point you will start noticing the symptoms and discomfort of the allergic reaction.

Common triggers include:

Tree
Grass
Crop pollen
Mould

Dust
Dust mites
Medicine (like Penicillin or Aspirin)
Food (nuts, shellfish and seafood, wheat, milk, eggs)
Animal dander
Saliva
Insect stings
Certain materials like latex rubber

Did you know?

Allergies are the result of your immune system’s reaction to a substance.

Signs and Symptoms

The symptoms of an allergic reaction vary depending on the trigger and how you’re exposed to it. For example, a nasal allergy is caused when a trigger is inhaled and has the following common symptoms: Sneezing, itchy and runny nose, itchy and watery eyes, feeling tired or ill.

A skin allergy is caused by something coming into contact with your skin and is usually identified through rashes and raised red patches (hives). If stung by an insect, you may experience redness, swelling and localised pain.

If you have swallowed a trigger, it may cause a food allergy that can cause diarrhoea, abdominal cramps and vomiting.

The symptoms and their severity vary from one person to another. For some, allergies can be extremely severe and life threatening, requiring immediate medical intervention.

Did you know?

Allergic reactions can be mild, moderate or even life-threatening.

Anaphylactic reactions

They are the most severe of symptoms, they require rapid attention and medical intervention. People at risk of anaphylactic shock should carry two doses of Epinephrine (Adrenaline) with them at all times. In case of a reaction, the dose should be injected (using the Epinephrine pen) under the skin and emergency services should be contacted immediately.

Warning signs and symptoms:

Red or swollen skin, rash, itch, hives.
Sneezing, runny and stuffy nose.
Swollen lips or tongue.
Swollen itchy throat, tightness and trouble swallowing.
Cough, wheezing chest, pain and tightness in the chest.
Trouble breathing, shortness of breath and rapid heartbeat.
Paleness, weak pulse.
Dizziness, weakness, confusion or fainting.
Vomiting and/or diarrhoea with abdominal cramps and pain.