The many symptoms associated with allergies are as numerous as the types of allergic reactions themselves, but some are actually common. In order to receive proper treatment, one must identify the allergic reaction.

Some airborne allergens, such as mold spores or pollen, tend to produce the symptoms below:

Conjunctivitis is a fairly common condition that accompanies several different allergies. It manifests itself as swelling and redness of the conjunctiva (membrane around the eyelid). This usually leads watery, itchy eyes. And of course, scratching only worsens the condition.

Allergic rhinitis, an inflammation of the nasal passages, is another familiar symptom to allergy sufferers. It is characterized by swelling of the mucous membranes, often accompanied by a nasal discharge. In short, a runny nose. But more than just leaking thick fluid, the swelling can lead to tenderness and pain. Congestion and difficulty breathing can also occur.

It’s similar to having a cold; only the symptom persists for much longer than a few days. The underlying cause is also fundamentally different. A cold is produced by a virus. Here, the symptom is an immune system reaction to an allergen; often dust mite waste, animal dander or pollen.

Excess sneezing is both a separate symptom and often a result of allergic rhinitis. It, in turn, tends to produce and reinforce other symptoms. Histamines are released by a sneeze. They lead to the production of watery eyes and further runny nose. If the sneezing persists, an ache in the lungs and facial pain can result. In extreme cases, back pain can result from the mechanical action of the sneeze.

One or more result of all these can be sleeplessness and subsequent fatigue. Congestion, runny nose and general discomfort can make it hard to relax enough to fall asleep. Lack of rest leads to fatigue.

Wheeziness is a result of mild asthma, itself an allergic reaction. That is a consequence of the bronchial sacs becoming filled with fluid, similar to the way nasal membranes can. The inflammation makes tissues less efficient at absorbing and transporting oxygen, which results in shortness of breath. Thus, an allergy sufferer can see a cascade of interlocking symptoms.

Other symptoms are more common with food allergies.

A skin rash, itching, hives (red welts) or eczema is often experienced by those sensitive to peanuts, shellfish and other foods. The lips or tongue may swell. Abdominal pain or diarrhea are typical. Even dizziness or fainting is far from unknown.

All allergic symptoms are essentially an immune system overreaction to an allergen, usually in the environment. Though, there are genetic factors that predispose a person to allergies. Merely having one or more of the symptoms described above doesn’t necessarily indicate the presence of an allergy. But, when they persist for more than two weeks, it’s appropriate to seek a professional diagnosis

Allergy attacks when you least expect it. Imagine having a very important interview and you cant answer properly because of the sneezing and wheezing. Isn’t it too uncomfortable? If you have already been subjected to allergy testing and know your particular allergies, you should be extra careful because allergy can attack in the most mysterious ways.

There are various allergens all around us. It pays off to be careful and prepared. Other than carefulness and preparation, knowledge is essential. Here are some facts about allergy that will help you prepare for the unexpected allergy attack:

Stuffed toys are usually not the culprit for allergy. A lot of people throw their stuffed toys thinking that the only allergen is the kapok used to stuff the toys. Unsuspectingly, the allergen can just be the dust mites. So washing can save the stuffed toys from being put into trash.

Some people are surprised to have allergic reactions even if their allergen is nowhere to be seen. For instance, some people are allergic to pet dander so they don’t have any pet at home but still they get the allergic reaction. Pet dander can be left on clothes and other things. For instance, a person with pet can have dander on his clothes and he can transfer it wherever he sits or lie down. So don’t be surprised if you get sudden allergic reaction even if you don’t have a pet or you have visited a place with no pet at all.

Always be ready with anti-allergy remedies. You never know when allergy will hit you. Even in your least expected moment, you may encounter an invisible allergen that will trigger allergic reaction on your part.

Be tested for allergies. Have yourself subjected to allergy testing. Through allergy testing, you will be able to particularly identify which type of allergens affect you. As much as possible, do everything you can to avoid these allergens. Know what you have to do to relieve the allergic reactions because as mentioned above, allergies attack when you least expect it. Know first aid treatment for your allergy. This way, you will not panic if ever that sudden allergy attacks.

Allergens are basically everywhere. Sometimes even if you avoid it, they find you instead. It is best to be ready at all times. Knowledge and readiness are the keys to successfully deal with sudden allergy attacks.