When Allergy Symptoms Turn Into More Than a Runny Nose
A runny nose is one of the most familiar signs of allergies. But allergies don't always stop there.
Different Allergies, Different Symptoms: Learn the Signs
Not all allergies are created equal, and what we think of as ‘typical’ allergy signs don’t necessarily apply to every allergic reaction. You may be allergic to something and not even know it!
Allergies fall into four different “types” based on how you’ve encountered the allergen. You could eat it, inhale it, touch it, or be stung by it, and each type gets a different type of reaction from your body.
When you eat something you’re allergic to, the symptoms could include:
- Hives
- Mouth swelling
- Difficulty breathing
- Dizziness
- Sweating
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
When you inhale something you’re allergic to, such as pollen, common symptoms are:
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
- Nasal congestion
- Watery eyes
- Coughing
If you’re stung by an insect that you’re allergic to, you can have an entirely different response, including:
- Swelling
- Redness
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Fever
And lastly, if you touch something you’re allergic to, your symptoms might be:
- Rash
- Itchy skin and nose
- Watery eyes
- Sneezing
All of these, of course, may occur at varying degrees of severity. It’s a pretty significant range of symptoms for the same basic condition, which is why it’s best to come visit your Atlanta ENT specialist if you even suspect that you may have some of those symptoms when you come into contact with any particular substances.
You may not even realize what substance you’re reacting to, because sometimes people are allergic to food dyes, or “invisible” ingredients that the food industry uses as fillers. So if you experience any of these symptoms regularly, make an appointment to check it out.
It might just change your life!
Ramie Tritt, MD, President, Atlanta ENT
You Might Also Enjoy...
October Triggers: What Can Make Breathing Symptoms Worse This Fall?
October can bring cooler temperatures, changing weather, and plenty of time spent indoors. For people with allergies, asthma, or other breathing concerns, those seasonal changes may also bring more noticeable symptoms.
Waking Up With a Dry Mouth? Your Nose May Be Part of the Problem
You wake up with a dry mouth, scratchy throat, or that unpleasant feeling that you spent the night breathing through your mouth.
It may be more than just needing a glass of water.
Is It a Sinus Infection or Just Lingering Congestion?
A stuffy nose can be frustrating, especially when it seems to stick around long after you expected to feel better. But does lingering congestion mean you have a sinus infection?
Not necessarily.
When Allergy Medicine Isn’t Enough: What to Do About Persistent Fall Allergy Symptoms
For many people, fall allergies mean weeks of sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes, and a constantly runny nose. While over-the-counter allergy medicine may provide some relief, what happens when your allergy symptoms keep coming back or never fully go away?
Breathing Through Your Mouth? Your Nose May Be the Problem
Breathing through your mouth once in a while is normal. But if you regularly find yourself breathing through your mouth during the day or while sleeping, it may be a sign that your nose isn't allowing air to pass through as easily as it should.