The most common allergies include pollen and household allergies, such as dust mites, pets and some foods. While most allergies are just minor inconveniences, others can be quite serious. A severe allergic reaction, known as anaphylaxis, may require immediate medical attention. Determining the cause of an allergy may be simple or very complicated, and may sometimes requires testing by a doctor.
Most common allergies wreak havoc with sinuses and mucus membranes. This is especially true of pollen allergens, such as ragweed, flower and tree pollen. Those allergies can cause itchy eyes, runny noses and sore throats. Those who experience these allergies may be miserable during the spring and autumn. For example, ragweed pollen often is at its strongest in late summer.
Common allergies around the house include pet allergies. Some may be specifically allergic to the dander created by cats or dogs, or may be affected by both species equally. These are considered the most common pet allergies, but this is likely simply because these are the most common pets. Many people may be just as allergic to rabbit dander, ferret dander or dander, from other mammals.
For pet owners, an allergy to an animal may seem like a curse. Fortunately, those who suffer may find their bodies eventually adjust to the allergen caused by the pet, and that symptoms eventually diminish over time. In other cases, some animal lovers may find there is no way to alleviate their symptoms, other than with prescription medication, or by avoiding the allergen altogether. There are also some breeds of dogs and cats that tend to cause fewer allergies than others.
Of all the common allergies, dust mites, or house mites, may be among the most troublesome. This is because they have no season. They live indoors and therefore stay very comfortable year round. They are also in a place most people spend at least eight of every 24 hours -- in a bed. Therefore, they tend to be very troublesome. While most dust mite allergies are minor inconveniences, they have been responsible for fatal asthma attacks.
Food allergens are among the most common allergies capable of producing the most severe reactions. Shellfish, milk, and nuts, especially peanuts, cause the most problems. The proteins, especially in peanuts, can be particularly hard for some people to deal with. In some cases, even the smell of these foods can produce an allergic reaction.
For many types of common allergies, an effective antihistamine is the best cure. This effectively neutralizes the allergen, and provides general relief from most symptoms. This medication can be provided in pill form, or may be injected by a doctor or nurse. Many will find they need constant treatment throughout the allergy season. While this may be an inconvenience, it usually provides enough relief to make things bearable.