What is Allergies?

• is the reaction of the immune system from a substance.

• Atopy is the genetic tendency to develop allergic diseases. When atopic people are exposed to allergens, they can develop an immune reaction that leads to allergic inflammation.

CAUSES

• FOOD

nuts, shellfish, milk, banana, kiwi, chestnuts,  eggs and wheat.

• PLANTS

        poison ivy, poison oak, poison sumac.

• INSECTS

        bee stings, hornets, and spider bites.

• MEDICINES

         penicillin, sulfa drugs, anesthetics.

• CHEMICALS 

         latex, perfumes, other chemicals.

• AIRBORNE

         dust, animal dander, pollen, mold and mildew.

SIGNS OF ALLERGIES AND ALLERGIC REACTIONS

• Asthma, shortness of breath, cough, chest tightness or wheezing.
• Itchy, watery eyes.
• Itchy, inflamed or runny nose.
• Dark circles under and around eyes.
• Recurring headache
• Diarrhea or stomach cramps.

Anaphylaxis - (This is emergency!)
 

Signs of Anaphylactic Reaction:

• Breathing difficulty
• Severe wheezing
• Confusion
• Rapid or weak pulse
• Slurring of speech
• Heart palpitations
• Fainting or severe dizziness
• Cyanosis
• Generalized hives

AREAS OF THE BODY AFFECTED

1. Nose, eyes, sinuses and throat.
2. Lungs and chest.
3. Stomach and bowel.
4. Skin.

CAREERS MOST LIKELY TO DEVELOP LATEX ALLERGY

• Healthcare workers
• Hairdressers
• Mechanics