Allergy symptoms can range from mild to severe depending on the type of allergy. Allergies can be caused by inhaled environmental allergens, foods, and insect venom. Mild to moderate symptoms include:
- Itchy, runny or congested nose
- Sneezing
- Itchy, watery eyes
- Congested sinuses and headache
- Itchy skin, rashes, wheals, hives, welts, swelling, redness or dermatitis
- Stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, itchy throat or mouth or rectal bleeding
- Irritable airways, coughing, tight chest, wheezing or shortness of breath
- Food allergy symptoms can include stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, itchy throat or mouth
In some cases, allergies
cause anaphylaxis, a
severe and life-threating
allergic reaction.
Signs of anaphylaxis include a combination of swelling of the mouth and throat, a rapid or weak pulse, skin rash and nausea or vomiting. Common triggers of anaphylaxis include certain foods, some medications, and insect venom. Anaphylaxis requires an immediate injection of epinephrine. Without the injection, anaphylaxis can progress quickly and may result in death. If you or someone you care for is having an anaphylactic reaction, call 911 or visit the emergency room immediately.