December 12th, 2017
Did you know…? As many as 40 or 50 million people in the United States suffer from allergies? Allergies cause swollen eyes, itching skin, dripping noses, lightheadedness and even death? What is it? An allergy is a strong reaction by your body’s immune system to something that would normally be harmless—a food, plant, or medicine. Common reactions include a stuffy nose, itchy eyes, or a skin rash. Severe allergic reactions (see below) require immediate medical attention. Many people who have allergies also have asthma.Allergic reactions may trigger asthma attacks, where a swelling and tightening of your airways that makes it difficult to breathe (see “Asthma” fact sheet). Signs ofAllergies andAllergic Reactions include: Asthma, shortness of breath, cough, chest tightness or wheezing (See “Asthma” fact sheet), itchy, watery eyes, itchy, inflamed or runny nose, hives or itchy rash on skin, dark circles under and around eyes, recurring headache, diarrhea or stomach cramps,Anaphylaxis (a severe reaction) may be life-threatening. Symptoms include: swelling, tingling in the mouth, and a red, itchy rash, as well as lightheadedness, shortness of breath, severe sneezing, stomach cramps, and loss of blood pressure. If these symptoms are present, go immediately to a doctor or emergency room for treatment.