Chlorine allergies can cause reactions when ingested, smelled, or in contact with the skin. Prolonged exposure can make some people more prone to allergic reactions, such as asthma or allergic rhinitis. Treatment includes antihistamines and inhalers, but avoidance may be necessary in some cases. Chlorine allergies are rare, and alternative salts may be recommended. A […]
Milk allergy symptoms can range from mild to severe, and can occur immediately or take a few hours to manifest. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening immune system response that can occur in severe cases. Milk allergy and lactose intolerance are not the same condition and require different treatment. Casein and whey are the proteins most often […]
Shellfish allergy is a serious and common food allergy that can cause severe reactions, including anaphylaxis. Symptoms include numbness, wheezing, and vomiting. Testing is recommended for anyone who experiences a reaction to shellfish, and avoidance of shellfish is essential. Cross-contamination and hidden sources of shellfish in supplements and condiments can also be problematic. A shellfish […]
Harrison Schmitt experienced nasal congestion after walking on the moon due to moondust. NASA plans to send humans back to the moon by 2024. Moon dust contains silicon dioxide, iron, magnesium, and calcium and tastes like gunpowder. In 1972, Harrison Schmitt became the most recent person to walk on the moon, joining 11 others to […]
Garlic allergies are rare but can cause severe symptoms such as stomach pain, hives, and shortness of breath. Allergies occur when the immune system reacts to harmless substances, and subsequent reactions can be worse. Garlic intolerances cause unpleasant reactions but are not life-threatening. Antihistamines can reduce symptoms, but those with garlic allergies should avoid garlic-containing […]
Deodorant allergies can cause itching, redness, and peeling of the skin, as well as pimples or pustules. Mild symptoms can be treated with anti-itch cream and stopping use of the product, while more severe reactions may require medical attention to avoid infection or systemic allergic reactions. Many people use underarm deodorant to reduce the odor […]
Soy allergy symptoms include hives, swelling, and difficulty breathing. Anaphylaxis is a severe reaction that requires emergency treatment. Soy is found in many food products and can be difficult to avoid. Diagnosis involves monitoring for reactions or performing skin or blood tests. Antihistamines can help with symptoms, but those at risk of anaphylaxis may need […]
Shrimp allergies can cause facial swelling, hives, nausea, dizziness, and throat closing. Antihistamines can help with symptoms, but anaphylaxis requires emergency treatment. People with severe shellfish allergies should be cautious when eating out. A shrimp allergy is a common type of shellfish allergy. People with shrimp allergies can experience a multitude of symptoms when they […]
Allergy to iodine is rare and often confused with allergies to other substances. The most serious reaction is anaphylactic shock, but less severe symptoms can also occur. Testing for iodine allergy is necessary before administering contrast dye. Allergy to shellfish is not necessarily an allergy to iodine. People with an iodine allergy are almost never […]
Becoming an allergy specialist requires completing college, medical school, and two residency programs, followed by certification exams. High school students should study math, chemistry, and biology. After medical school, a residency in allergy/immunology is required, followed by certification. Total training takes about 13 years. It takes many years to become an allergy specialist, also called […]
Penicillin allergy is a common immune response to the drug, causing mild to severe symptoms. Symptoms include hives, rash, swelling, and wheezing, with anaphylactic shock being a life-threatening reaction. Penicillin is a popular antibiotic, but those with allergies to it or related drugs should watch for reactions. Risk factors include frequent use, HIV, cystic fibrosis, […]
Semen allergy is a rare allergic reaction to a protein found in semen that can cause burning, redness, and swelling. It can be prevented by using a condom during sex, but there is no cure. Desensitization treatment involves repeated exposure to diluted semen, but it may not be practical for everyone. A semen allergy is […]
Caffeine allergies cause severe and sometimes life-threatening reactions to any caffeine consumption. It triggers unwanted mental, emotional, and physical symptoms, making it difficult to concentrate. Diagnosis involves testing and eliminating other health issues before determining the allergy and treatment, which involves removing all caffeine-containing foods and beverages from the diet. Caffeine allergies are situations in […]
Allergic reactions on the face can cause itchy rashes, swelling, watery eyes, and hives. Swelling near the throat or tongue can be life-threatening and medical attention should be sought. Cosmetics and beauty products can be a source of allergic reactions. Some signs of an allergic reaction on the face are itchy rashes, swelling of the […]
Spreading awareness about food allergies is crucial, especially for children who may not understand how to react during a severe attack. Parents should inform schools, friends’ parents, and other caregivers about their child’s condition, and offer to educate others. It’s important for allergy sufferers to be fully aware of their condition and for doctors to […]
Allergies can be debilitating, requiring professional help from an allergist. Immunotherapy involves injecting increasing doses of allergens to desensitize patients. Allergy testing determines the course of therapy, with up to three sera created and injected weekly for a year, then monthly for four years or more. Potency increases are based on the initial allergy test […]
Mosquito bites can cause mild to severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis. The intensity of the reaction can increase with the number of bites. Using insect repellent, covering exposed skin, and washing the bite area can reduce the risk of a reaction. Seek medical attention for severe symptoms. Mosquito bites aren’t generally considered dangerous, but some […]
Becoming an allergy immunologist requires extensive education and training, including an undergraduate degree, medical school, and specific training in allergy and immunology. Certification exams are also required to practice in the field. Allergists help identify, treat, and manage illnesses related to allergies and immune system deficiencies. Extensive education and training is required if you want […]
Contact lens wearers may experience red, itchy, and watery eyes due to allergies caused by irritants such as pollen, dandruff, and protein buildup. Proper hand washing and lens care can help, as can wearing disposable lenses or switching to sensitive eye contact solution. GPC, caused by protein buildup, can also lead to allergic reactions. Some […]
Allergic reactions to sulfites can range from mild to life-threatening, with symptoms including respiratory problems, gastrointestinal distress, and personality changes. Anaphylaxis is the most serious complication and requires immediate medical attention. An allergic reaction to sulfites can take many forms and can range from mild to potentially life-threatening. Some of the more commonly reported symptoms […]
