Why Some Allergy Symptoms are Life Threatening
On June 12, 2008 in Allergies, Conditions, General, Health
Allergy symptoms can vary depending on their severity. There are three basic categories of allergic reaction which are classed as mild, moderate and severe. The symptoms will become worse depending on which heading the reaction falls under.
Common allergies and symptoms of a mild allergic reaction will cause a person to suffer from such things as congestion, itchy watery eyes, puffing up of the skin and skin rashes. Apart from where it initially shows itself, a mild allergic reaction will not spread to other parts of the body.
Moderate allergic reactions can include several of the preceding symptoms as well as more intense itching and a problem with breathing. If your allergy symptoms have been diagnosed as a moderate allergic reaction, you should be aware that it can spread to other parts of the body if not kept in check. It is therefore important to seek medical attention for moderate allergic reactions.
Symptoms that fall under the severe allergy category are known as anaphylaxis. Although rare, this condtion can nevertheless be life threatening. When a severe allergic reaction occurs, the response of the body to an allergen is totally unexpected, intense and can affect not just one part but the entire body. The symptoms can begin with itchiness of the eyes and face and can quickly spread to even more symptoms that become severe very fast. Anaphylaxis is a hypersensitivity reaction in which patients may experience flushing, hives, stuffy nose, red itchy eyes, difficulty breathing, swelling of the tongue, throat, palms and soles, abdominal cramping, dizziness, reduced blood pressure, and loss of consciousness. A severe allergic reaction constitutes a medical emergency and help should be looked for without delay.
Most people who suffer from allergies are aware of the potential of allergy symptoms. It is worth noting however that new allergies can start all of a sudden without any prior warning and therefore keeping watch for potential allergy symptoms is always important.