How to recognize allergy symptoms and identify the allergens causing them

  An allergy is a body's reaction to exogenous toxic substances known as allergens. Recognizing allergy symptoms is essential to identify the allergy type and start the right therapy. Here is a series of the most common types of allergy: Respiratory allergy It usually affects the respiratory system: nose, eyes and bronchi with onset of rhinitis, conjunctivitis or asthma. The most frequent symptoms are: sneezing, runny nose, red and itchy eyes, difficulty in breathing. In most cases it is caused by environmental allergens such as pollen of trees, plants, mites, animals and molds. Skin allergy It can also be called allergic eczema. The most common symptoms are itching, redness, blistering of the affected part. It is caused by environmental allergens such as metals, perfumes, creams or latex. Food allergy It affects different organs. The allergy symptoms are skin eczema, nausea, vomiting, abdominal colic, swelling of the throat, and in severe cases, anaphylactic shock. It is caused by food allergens such as cow's milk, eggs, nuts, fish or by drugs. Allergy to insect bites It affects different organs. The symptoms are weakness, dizziness, chest tightness, difficulty in breathing, swelling of the throat and of the tongue, urticaria, and in severe cases anaphylactic shock. It is caused by allergens contained in the insect venom. [Photo: flickr.com]