Allergies can strike anytime, and anywhere. They’re one of the most common ailments, affecting millions of people each year. There are many causes of allergies, including organic and inorganic matter. Allergies develop as a result of a hypersensitive reaction by your immune system to a foreign substance, causing a range of symptoms to appear. While most allergic reactions are not severe, some people may develop life-threatening complications. Contact your doctor if you suspect being allergic to something. Find out ten causes of allergies.

Latex

Latex allergies are among the most common types of allergies in the Western world. This kind of allergy usually develops as a reaction to previous exposures to latex. People who suffer from latex allergy are likely to experience itching, swelling, and hives in the area exposed to the material. In more severe cases, it can cause wheezing, difficulty breathing, as well as a headache. Depending on the sensitivity level, symptoms may develop a few minutes after exposure, and up to an hour afterward. Luckily, latex-free products can easily be found in most supermarkets.

Dust Mites

More than 20 million people in the US suffer from allergies due to dust mites, making this by far one of the most common causes of allergy. Dust mites are tiny, microscopic creatures that consume dead skin cells, both human and animal. Dust mites are notorious for their ability to persist even in the harshest of climates. The higher a number of dust mites, the more severe symptoms will appear. Another conditioning factor is the degree of sensitivity. Symptoms can range from mild, including coughing and itching, to more serious symptoms.

Nickel

Another frequent cause of allergy is nickel. Nickel is a metal that is most often found in different jewelry, such as earrings, bracelets, and rings. The skin around the ear can be especially sensitive to nickel, causing symptoms such as itchiness and irritation. In some cases, earrings containing nickel may lead to infections of the skin. To ensure that your earrings are nickel-free, look for a certifying engraving that can be found on the metallic earring locks. You can also consider wearing wooden jewelry, which is 100% free of nickel. To test for symptoms, rub your earring on the skin of ear and look for red patches of skin.

Cockroaches

As terrifying as it may sound, cockroaches are one of the most probable causes of allergic symptoms. Cockroaches can trigger symptoms in many people due to a unique protein found in their excrement and saliva. When it enters contact with humans, it can cause symptoms affecting the skin, lungs, and eyes. In some cases, cockroaches can even trigger an asthma attack. To reduce the risk of a cockroach infestation, make sure there is no food lying around the house, and remove any excess moisture from walls and the floor. If you still report symptoms, contact an exterminator.

Fragrances

Many people enjoy wearing alluring fragrances to work or just for a night of partying. Perfumes and colognes have been an important part of cosmetic history for many centuries already. These aromatic substances are made with a variety of ingredients, some natural and some artificial. Most people can wear them just fine, but a few may experience an allergic reaction. You may experience rashes, swelling, and itchiness on the skin if you are allergic to fragrances. Soap, shampoo, and dental products may provoke similar symptoms. You can always shop for products that are free from irritating substances.

Certain Foods

Many people suffer from food allergies: in fact, you may be one of more than 15 million Americans that report some food or drink allergy. Some of the most common forms of food allergy include nuts, milk, soy, fish, and onions. You are considered to have a food allergy if your body’s immune system reacts aggressively to the presence of certain foods. Depending on the person, symptoms can range from mild to severe. Some of the most frequent symptoms include a cough, diarrhea, vomiting and stomach ache. Severe symptoms can be life-threatening, so seek medical attention if you experience difficulty breathing, dizziness, or severe pain.

Mold

If you live in a damp, wet environment that experiences frequent rainfall and humidity, you may be at risk of developing household mold. Mold can grow nearly anywhere as long as the bacteria that cause it can thrive. Mold is classified as a fungus, and it can reproduce and spread. If mold particles enter the nasal passage, they can provoke allergic symptoms to develop, including irritation of the eyes, cough, as well as asthma attacks. To reduce the presence of mold, ensure that surfaces are kept dry and free from moisture.

Quaternium 15

In most cases, symptoms related to allergies are caused by organic matter, such as pollen or animal fur. While these are often the most common trigger of allergies, they aren’t the only ones. Many human-made and artificial products can also cause an allergic reaction to take place, including many cosmetics. That’s why women – who wear the most amount of makeup – are more likely to experience these symptoms. One of the most common allergens is quaternium 15, which is a type of preservative abundantly found in different cosmetic products. Shampoo, nail polish, and sunscreen are just a few of the products containing it.

Animal Dander

If you’re like most Americans, you either have a pet or have owned one in the past. While it may be pleasant to have a pet dog or cat in the house, it can also be an allergy trigger. Even many people who own pets admit to having allergic symptoms once in a while due to contact with their pets (around 65% of all U.S households have a pet). The fine particles found in domestic animals’ skin and fur can cause an allergic reaction to develop, with symptoms such as coughing, itching, and swelling being amongst the most common.

Pollen

Pollen allergy is one of the most common forms of allergy in the USA. It is caused by an allergic reaction that takes place inside the body when it becomes in contact with pollen. Pollen is a powder that is produced by different organisms, including trees, flowers, as well as weeds. Many people suffer from pollen allergies, which is why spring is also known as the allergy season. If pollen finds its way into your nasal passage, throat, or lungs, it may trigger an allergic reaction. Some of the main symptoms include coughing, swelling, itching, and even pain.