Unknown facts about Allergies!

Source: ChilliBreeze

Does the word “allergy” conjure up images of red, blotchy skin, sneezing fits, and breathing spasms? While the term is a general one to indicate that the body’s immune system is over-reacting to substances called “allergens”, there still prevail several other misconceptions about allergies.

Food Allergies
One of the most common allergies, about 8% of adults and 2% of children suffer from food allergies. Food allergies can occur from any food – but mainly, soy, nuts, cow’s milk, fish, and peanuts. And we thought that most people with food allergy are allergic to strawberries and tomatoes! “Lactose Intolerance” is often confused with an allergy to milk. But the fact is that more children than adults have an allergy to milk, which is characterized by hives, vomiting, and breathing problems. Adults actually have a problem digesting the sugars present in milk, which isn’t really an allergy. While children usually outgrow allergy to milk, eggs, soya and wheat, allergy to nuts, peanuts, and fish are seldom overcome.

Insect Allergies
Are you about to go for a camping trip this summer? Then you must stay safe from insect bites that can trigger severe and serious allergic reactions. Remember to seek immediate medical help if you start having symptoms. If stung by a bee, do not try to pull out the “sting”, as this could send in more venom. Try instead, to scrape it out.

Latex allergies
The term “latex” is used to refer to products made from “natural rubber”. So the allergy could be from use of any product, like gloves, condoms, and balloons. If you know you’re allergic to latex, simply avoid it. Let others around you know this too. Latex allergy could also later develop into more serious conditions like “occupational asthma”.

Do you know of anyone who suffers from a rare allergy? How do you manage your allergies – are there any special precautions you take? Do you know of some ways to overcome them?

(Source: American Academy of Family Physicians)