Symptoms
Symptoms of Allergies
The signs and symptoms of allergic rhinitis are:
sneezing, often accompanied by a runny or clogged nose
coughing and postnasal drip
itching eyes, nose and throat
allergic shiners (dark circles under the eyes caused by increased blood flow near the sinuses)
the "allergic salute" (in a child, persistent upward rubbing of the nose that causes a crease mark on the nose)
watery eyes
conjunctivitis (an inflammation of the membrane that lines the eyelids, causing red-rimmed, swollen eyes and crusting of the eyelids)
The signs and symptoms of asthma are:
a feeling of tightness in the chest
breathlessness
coughing
difficulty inhaling and exhaling
noisy breathing ("wheezing")
The signs and symptoms of eczema, contact dermatitis and urticaria are:
red, itchy skin
inflamed skin
welts (in hives)
WARNING: If a person is experiencing more severe symptoms than what is listed above, they may be in anaphylactic shock.
Anaphylactic shock is a medical emergency which is an acute systemic (affecting the whole body) allergic reaction. It occurs after exposure to an antigen (allergen) to which a person was previously sensitized.
The signs and symptoms of anaphylactic shock include the general symptoms of a common allergic reaction, PLUS:
rapidly worsening symptoms (or previously severe reactions to this allergen)
swelling of tissues such as lips or joints
wheezing, noisy breathing or shortness of breath
rash or redness of the skin
loss of consciousness
anxiety
itching of the skin
headache
nausea and vomiting
abdominal cramps
diarrhea
low blood pressure
convulsions
itching of the mouth and throat
hoarseness, change of voice
chest pain and tightness
a feeling of warmth and flushing
cramping of the uterus
the feeling of having to urinate
sweating
confusion
Allergens more commonly associated with anaphylactic shock are: certain insect venoms; drugs such as penicillin; and foods like fish, peanuts, nuts, eggs and seeds.
Call 911 if any of these symptoms occur with an allergic reaction. If not treated promptly and properly, anaphylaxis can result in death. Fortunately, the tendency to have such serious reactions is rare.
Treatment of anaphylactic shock is first to inject adrenaline (epinephrine) to constrict the small blood vessels, raise the blood pressure and dilate the airway. This may be followed by injection of antihistamines and/or steroids, plus the use of life-support systems.
DON'T HAVE Rx COVERAGE?Click Here to print out your FREE OPTIMIZERx Card and instantly begin savings on your next prescriptions!
