Allergies

Acacia trees are popular ornamental plants that also produce allergenic pollen. They typically bloom in the late winter to spring, releasing pollen that can cause seasonal allergy symptoms. People living in areas with a high concentration of acacia trees may experience increased allergic reactions during these bloom periods....

Acarus siro, commonly known as the flour mite, is a species frequently found in stored grains and flour. These mites can thrive in kitchen cupboards and pantries, especially in humid environments. For sensitive individuals, exposure may cause allergic reactions and can be particularly problematic for those with preexisting respiratory issues.

Alder pollen is a common early spring allergen. When alder trees bloom, they release significant amounts of pollen into the air, often triggering allergic rhinitis, or hay fever, in sensitive individuals. People with alder allergies may notice their symptoms worsen on dry, windy days when pollen dispersal is at its peak....

Almond allergy is an allergic reaction to almonds, a type of tree nut. It is one of the more common tree nut allergies and can range from mild to severe, including potentially life-threatening reactions. Like other food allergies, an almond allergy is an immune system response to the proteins found in almonds....

Allergies to almonds, pine nuts, and sunflower seeds are common concerns for many individuals. These reactions are triggered by the immune system's response to proteins found in these nuts and seeds, leading to various symptoms. Understanding, identifying, and managing these allergies are essential steps in ensuring safety and health....

Alternaria alternata is a mold that releases spores into the air, triggering allergic reactions. It grows on a variety of plants and materials, thriving in warm, moist environments. People sensitive to this mold may experience symptoms during dry, windy conditions when spore levels peak.

Apple allergy is an allergic reaction to proteins found in apples, often associated with Oral Allergy Syndrome (OAS). It typically affects individuals allergic to birch pollen, as similar proteins in apples can cause cross-reactivity. Symptoms range from mild oral irritation to more noticeable reactions, although severe cases are rare.

Pollen from ash trees, which is a common allergen during springtime. Can induce respiratory symptoms in allergic individuals.

Aspergillus fumigatus is a common mold found in soil, decaying organic material, and sometimes indoor environments. It is a significant allergen that can cause respiratory issues such as allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) in vulnerable individuals, particularly those with asthma or cystic fibrosis.

Grass pollen that is a significant cause of seasonal allergies, especially in late spring and early summer.

Barley is a commonly used grain found in a variety of foods and drinks — from bread and cereals to beer. For some people, barley can trigger an allergic reaction because of its protein content. It’s important for those affected to recognize the symptoms and manage a barley allergy properly.

Bee venom allergy is a potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when an individual has an allergic reaction to bee stings. This type of allergy triggers the immune system to overreact to the proteins found in bee venom, leading to symptoms that can range from mild local swelling to severe systemic reactions, including anaphylaxis. Understanding and recognizing the signs of a bee venom allergy is key to managing and treating this condition effectively....

Bermuda grass pollen allergy is a type of allergic reaction to the pollen grains released by Bermuda grass, a common grass species in warmer regions, especially used for lawns, parks, and golf courses. This allergy is a form of seasonal allergic rhinitis, often flaring up during the grass-pollinating seasons, typically late spring and summer....

Pollen from birch trees, a common trigger of hay fever, asthma, and other respiratory allergies in the spring.

Shellfish allergies are a type of food allergy that affect both adults and children. This allergy often includes a variety of shellfish such as blue mussel, oyster, clam, and scallop. Because allergic reactions can be severe, it is important for those affected to understand how to recognize and manage a shellfish allergy.

Buckwheat intolerance is a relatively rare condition where the body experiences difficulty digesting buckwheat, leading to various digestive symptoms. Unlike a buckwheat allergy, which involves an immune response and can cause severe reactions, intolerance is generally limited to gastrointestinal discomfort....

Cacao, the primary ingredient in chocolate, is beloved by many but can also be a source of allergies for some individuals. An allergy to cacao can manifest through various symptoms ranging from mild to severe, including skin reactions, gastrointestinal discomfort, respiratory issues, and, in rare cases, anaphylaxis. Understanding your body's response to cacao and related products is crucial for maintaining health and well-being....

Allergenic protein found in the skin, saliva, and urine of cats, which can cause respiratory issues and asthma.

The role of Cross-reactive Carbohydrate Determinants (CCDs) involves the impact of complex sugar structures found on the surfaces of plant and animal proteins in allergy testing. These structures can cause cross-reactivity, resulting in false-positive outcomes. Understanding CCDs is crucial for accurate allergy diagnosis and preventing misinterpretation of test results.

Cheddar cheese allergy is a reaction related to cow’s milk allergy, since cheddar is made from cow’s milk. It is caused by milk proteins such as casein and whey. Recognizing the symptoms and understanding how to manage the allergy are important for those affected.

Mold that can cause respiratory problems and exacerbate asthma, prevalent in damp environments.

Insect allergen from cockroaches, which can contribute to respiratory issues and trigger asthma.

Fish commonly consumed and used in various culinary dishes. Cod allergies can provoke digestive symptoms and anaphylaxis.

Common pigweed is a widespread plant known for its highly allergenic pollen. Its pollen can trigger hay fever and other allergic reactions, especially in late summer and fall. People sensitive to pigweed may experience symptoms during its peak pollination season.

Common ragweed is a plant known for causing fall allergies. As one of the most prolific pollen producers, ragweed can affect people even miles away from where it grows. Its high pollen levels are a leading cause of seasonal allergic rhinitis, impacting many individuals as summer turns into autumn.

Cottonwood trees, known for their cotton-like seeds, also produce pollen that can cause allergic reactions. During the spring, cottonwood trees release pollen that can aggravate allergies in sensitive individuals. This can lead to an increase in symptoms such as sneezing, congestion, and itchy eyes, particularly on windy days when the pollen is easily spread....

Crayfish allergy is an allergic reaction to proteins found in crayfish, a type of shellfish. Similar to other shellfish allergies, it can range from mild to severe and can be potentially life-threatening in some cases. People with crayfish allergy may react not only to eating crayfish but also to inhaling steam from cooking crayfish....

Cucumber intolerance is a condition where the body struggles to digest cucumber, often causing gastrointestinal discomfort. Unlike a cucumber allergy, which triggers an immune response and may lead to more severe reactions, cucumber intolerance usually results in digestive symptoms after eating cucumber.

Cultivated oat grass (Avena sativa) is a common cereal crop grown extensively across temperate regions. Besides its agricultural uses, it is recognized as an airborne allergen. During its pollination period, oat grass releases pollen that can become airborne and inhaled, potentially causing allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Symptoms may include sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy eyes, and respiratory irritation. It is one of many grasses whose pollen can contribute to seasonal allergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever.

Cultivated rye releases pollen that is a well-known cause of seasonal allergies. Its pollen season can overlap with grass pollen season, exacerbating symptoms for individuals with grass pollen allergies. When rye fields are flowering, nearby populations may experience a spike in hay fever symptoms....

Pollen from cypress trees, prevalent in the spring and fall. Known to cause hay fever and asthma symptoms.

Dandelions, though often seen as a simple weed or a herbal remedy, can cause allergic reactions or intolerances in some individuals. This typically occurs due to the pollen they release or from direct contact with the plant. Understanding the potential for an allergic reaction to dandelions is important, especially during their peak blooming season....

Dermatophagoides farinae (D. farinae), also known as the American house dust mite, is a common allergen found in household dust. These mites are widespread in carpets, bedding, and upholstered furniture, where they feed on human skin cells. Their fecal matter and body fragments can trigger allergic reactions year-round, often contributing to allergic rhinitis and asthma.

Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (D. pteronyssinus), commonly known as the European house dust mite, is a common indoor allergen. These microscopic organisms thrive in warm, humid environments and feed on organic matter such as shed human skin flakes. Their body fragments and waste products can trigger allergic reactions and asthma in sensitive individuals.

Allergenic protein found in the skin, saliva, and urine of dogs, leading to respiratory issues and skin reactions.

Eel meat intolerance is a condition where individuals experience difficulty digesting eel meat, which is a type of seafood commonly consumed in various cuisines, particularly in Asia and Europe. This can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort. Eel meat intolerance differs from an eel meat allergy, which involves an immune system response and can cause more severe reactions. People with eel meat intolerance typically experience digestive symptoms after consuming eel meat or dishes containing it....

False ragweed (Parthenium hysterophorus), also known as parthenium weed, is an invasive plant species native to the Americas but now found in many parts of the world. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is a significant allergen due to its highly potent airborne pollen. The plant typically blooms in late summer and fall, releasing pollen that can cause allergic rhinitis, asthma, and contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals. Inhalant allergy tests often include false ragweed because of its growing prevalence and strong allergenic properties.

Garlic and onion, members of the Allium family, are commonly used ingredients in cuisines worldwide. However, for some people, these foods can cause allergic reactions because of their unique compounds. Understanding and managing garlic and onion allergies is essential for maintaining a healthy, symptom-free diet.

Goldenrod is a flowering plant often mistaken as the cause of hay fever, but the real culprit is usually ragweed, which blooms at the same time and produces highly allergenic pollen. Goldenrod’s pollen is heavy and sticky, making it less likely to become airborne. While allergic reactions to goldenrod can occur, they are uncommon and usually involve symptoms similar to hay fever.

Guinea pig allergies are caused by proteins found in the animal's dander, saliva, and urine. People with this allergy might experience symptoms when they come into contact with guinea pigs or their living environments. Symptoms can be immediate or develop over time with repeated exposure....

Hamster allergies are caused by allergens found in a hamster’s dander, saliva, and urine. These allergens can trigger reactions in people through direct contact with the animal or from exposure to airborne particles. Such allergic responses are common in households with hamsters or in pet care settings.

Hazel trees are early bloomers, often heralding the start of the allergy season for many individuals. Their catkins release copious amounts of pollen as early as winter or spring, which can cause significant allergic reactions in people with sensitivities to tree pollen....

Pollen from hazelnut trees, known to cause respiratory allergies during its pollination period.

Allergenic animal dander that can cause respiratory symptoms and skin reactions

House dust allergies are caused by various components of dust—including dust mites, pet dander, mold spores, and pollen. These allergens can trigger symptoms that impact daily life, making it important to minimize exposure and manage the home environment effectively.

Japanese cedar, also known as Cryptomeria, is notorious for producing highly allergenic pollen. This pollen can trigger a condition known as "cedar fever," characterized by severe allergic reactions. Pollen release typically occurs from winter to early spring and can be intense, affecting a large number of individuals where these trees are prevalent....

Japanese hop, an invasive climbing plant, blooms in late summer and releases pollen that can cause allergic reactions. People who are sensitive to this type of pollen may experience increased symptoms during this time, especially in urban areas where the plant is more common....

Johnson grass (Sorghum halepense) is a fast-growing perennial grass native to the Mediterranean region but now widespread in many parts of the world, especially in warm and temperate climates. It is considered both an agricultural weed and a significant source of airborne allergens. Its pollen is released during the warm months and can trigger allergic reactions in susceptible individuals, particularly those with seasonal allergic rhinitis or asthma. Johnson grass belongs to the Poaceae (grass) family, which includes many cross-reactive species.

Shellfish that is a common allergen, causing symptoms such as hives, swelling, and anaphylaxis.

Fruit allergies, such as those to kiwi, mango, and banana, are increasingly recognized and result from the body's immune response to specific proteins in these fruits. These allergies can cause a variety of symptoms, ranging from mild discomfort to severe reactions, making it essential to identify and manage them effectively to maintain health and well-being.

Lenscale refers to microscopic particles of shed skin, hair, or feathers from animals, mainly pets like cats and dogs. These particles can become airborne, settle on furniture, bedding, or carpets, and trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Unlike larger clumps of fur, lenscale is extremely light and often invisible to the naked eye, making it a persistent allergen indoors even in clean environments. Allergic reactions to lenscale are caused by specific proteins found in the skin secretions or saliva of animals, which stick to these fine particles. Even without direct contact with animals, people can experience symptoms if they are exposed to contaminated environments.

Lobster and Pacific squid are delicacies enjoyed by many but can pose allergy risks for some individuals. Allergies to these seafood items can lead to reactions ranging from mild symptoms to severe, potentially life-threatening conditions. Understanding how to recognize and manage allergies to lobster and Pacific squid is crucial for affected individuals....

Meat allergy is a condition in which the immune system mistakenly identifies certain proteins in meat as harmful. This triggers an allergic reaction that can range from mild to severe. Unlike food intolerances that primarily affect digestion, meat allergies may cause symptoms involving the skin, respiratory system, and overall health.

Dust mite allergen, which is a common indoor allergen causing respiratory issues and skin reactions.

Allergies to mice and rats are common, especially in laboratory settings or homes where these animals are kept as pets. Allergens from mice and rats are present in their urine, dander, and saliva, which can become airborne and lead to allergic reactions in sensitive individuals....

Oak trees produce abundant pollen and are a common cause of seasonal spring allergies. When they release pollen, sensitive individuals can experience significant allergic reactions. The oak pollen season is often linked to increased allergy and asthma symptoms due to higher pollen levels in the air.

Pollen from olive trees, typically causing hay fever and other respiratory allergies during blooming periods.

Ox-eye daisy is a perennial plant that can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. While its pollen is generally less allergenic than that of many other plants, it can still trigger hay fever symptoms in those who are predisposed.

Stone fruit that can cause allergies ranging from oral allergy syndrome to severe reactions like anaphylaxis.

Penicillium notatum is a common mold known for its role in producing penicillin. In indoor environments, it can cause allergic reactions, especially in damp areas. Exposure to this mold may trigger respiratory symptoms and allergies in sensitive individuals, particularly those prone to mold-related reactions.

Perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne) is a cool-season grass commonly used for lawns, pastures, and turf because of its fast growth and durability. It is part of the Poaceae family and is a well-known source of seasonal allergens. During its pollination period—usually late spring to early summer—it releases airborne pollen that can cause allergic reactions such as hay fever and asthma in sensitive individuals. The allergenic potential of perennial ryegrass makes it an important component in inhalant allergy testing panels.

Allergies to seafood such as plaice, anchovy, and Alaska pollock occur when the immune system reacts to specific proteins in these fish. These reactions can cause a range of symptoms and may significantly impact diet and lifestyle. Understanding the triggers, symptoms, and management strategies is important for those living with these allergies.

Plantain weed is a common allergen found in grassy areas and should not be confused with the banana-like fruit. Its small, inconspicuous flowers release pollen that can trigger seasonal allergy symptoms. While it does not produce as much pollen as other weeds, plantain can still cause problems for individuals with specific sensitivities.

Pollen from ribwort plantain, a type of plant that can trigger respiratory allergies, especially in summer.

Russian thistle, also known as tumbleweed, is a plant whose pollen can cause seasonal allergic reactions. Its pollen is a common allergen, especially in dry regions. During blooming seasons, the lightweight pollen can travel long distances, affecting many people. Symptoms are typical of hay fever and include sneezing, itchy eyes, and a runny nose.

Pollen from rye grass, a significant cause of hay fever and respiratory allergies during its pollen season.

Sheep wool allergy is commonly mistaken for a reaction to the wool fibers themselves, but it's usually sensitivity to lanolin (wool grease) or other substances within the wool that triggers allergic responses. These responses can occur when wearing clothing made from sheep's wool or when exposed to wool in other products....

Shrimp allergy is a common shellfish allergy caused by an immune reaction to proteins found in shrimp. It is one of the most common food allergies in adults and can cause symptoms ranging from mild to severe, including anaphylaxis. This allergy is typically lifelong and may be triggered by eating shrimp or even inhaling steam while cooking.

Silkworm pupa allergy is a condition caused by an immune reaction to proteins found in silkworm pupae, which are used in various dishes and as a source of silk. This allergy can trigger symptoms in some people, making it important to recognize the signs, avoid contact, and understand how to manage the allergy effectively.

Grass pollen allergies indicate sensitivity to various types of grass—including sweet vernal, orchard grass, common reed, and bent grass. These allergens can significantly impact individuals who are prone to allergic reactions, affecting respiratory health, causing eye irritation, and reducing overall well-being. Understanding these allergies, recognizing the symptoms, and using effective management strategies can help lessen discomfort and enhance quality of life during peak pollen seasons.

Timothy grass pollen allergy is a reaction to the pollen of Timothy grass, a common type of grass used in hay and prevalent in many temperate regions. This allergy is a form of seasonal allergic rhinitis and typically flares up during the grass's pollinating season, usually in late spring and early summer....

Grass pollen that triggers many seasonal allergies, causing hay fever and asthma symptoms during its season.

Vegetable widely used in culinary dishes. Tomato allergy can cause oral allergy syndrome and digestive issues.

Total IgE testing plays a crucial role in the diagnostic process for allergies. This test measures the overall levels of Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies in the blood, which are produced as a response to allergens. Elevated Total IgE levels can suggest a heightened allergic sensitivity, although they do not pinpoint specific allergens....

Tuna and salmon are popular fish choices worldwide, known for their flavor and nutritional benefits. However, some people may have allergic reactions to these fish — a condition that can range from mild discomfort to severe, life-threatening reactions. Understanding the symptoms, triggers, and management strategies for tuna and salmon allergies is essential for those affected.

Tyrophagus putrescentiae, also known as the mold mite, is a species commonly found in stored foods and household dust. These mites thrive in environments with high humidity and can cause allergic reactions when their waste or body parts become airborne and are inhaled, leading to various allergy symptoms in sensitive individuals.

Walnut intolerance is a condition where individuals have difficulty digesting walnuts, leading to gastrointestinal discomfort. This differs from a walnut allergy, which involves an immune system response and can cause more severe, sometimes immediate reactions. Walnut intolerance typically results in digestive symptoms after consuming walnuts....

Wasp venom allergy is a serious condition that arises when an individual reacts allergically to the sting of a wasp. This allergy can cause symptoms ranging from localized pain and swelling to severe anaphylactic shock. Unlike bee stings, wasp stings can be particularly aggressive because wasps can sting multiple times, increasing the risk of a severe allergic reaction....

White ash (Fraxinus americana) pollen is a major contributor to seasonal pollen levels, especially in the spring when these trees bloom. The airborne pollen from white ash can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, adding to the variety of tree pollens present during allergy season.

White pine trees, with their long, slender needles, are lesser-known contributors to pollen-related allergies. While their pollen is not as potent as that of some other trees, it can still cause symptoms in those with specific sensitivities, especially when pollen levels peak in the spring....

Willow tree pollen is an indicator of the early spring release of pollen from willow trees. The light, easily spread pollen can cause allergic reactions in sensitive people, contributing to seasonal allergy symptoms. Exposure may cause discomfort, even during what is usually a pleasant time of year.

Pollen from wormwood plants, known to cause hay fever and exacerbate asthma during its blooming season.