Wheezing, sneezing, itchy skin – what’s happening? Every time you touch a surface, step outside, or put food in your mouth, you are exposed to dozens of possible allergens. An allergic reaction can range from mild skin irritation to life-threatening anaphylactic shock. You may have some clues about what is causing your allergy symptoms, but only an allergy doctor in Las Vegas can tell you for sure. To pinpoint the source of your allergies, think about whether you’ve been exposed to one of these 10 allergens. Some may surprise you!
Spices
When you think of food allergies, shellfish, peanuts, and soy likely come to mind. But spices also cause allergies, and they can create unpleasant symptoms. Within the family of spices, the two most common allergens are garlic and cinnamon. Wheezing, sneezing, and hives are classic symptoms.
Sunlight
If you break out in hives or get red, itchy skin patches after being in the sun, you might have an allergy. Some sun allergies are caused by medications, particularly antibiotics, which means you may only have temporary sun sensitivity.
Alcohol
You might have heard that beer and wine can cause allergies, but hard liquors can, too. Congestion, itchy skin, and sneezing after that 5 o’clock cocktail may indicate an alcohol allergy. The more alcohol you drink, the more likely you are to experience both acute and long-term allergy symptoms, as alcohol exacerbates allergy symptoms.
Jewelry
Have you ever wondered if your itchy neck or wrist was caused by your jewelry? Experts believe that up to 10% of Americans are allergic to nickel, which is a common component of jewelry. Bumps, rashes, and blisters indicate a possible jewelry allergy.
Sperm
Yes, it’s true – sperm is an allergen! Women who are allergic to sperm often notice symptoms similar to a yeast or urinary tract infection, including itching and burning. But a sperm allergy can also explain infertility, as a woman’s body will produce antibodies to “protect” against sperm.
Buttons
Buttons and zippers can cause allergies, which can trigger uncomfortable skin reactions. If you notice itchy, red skin or bumps where buttons hit your skin, you might be allergic to a metal in the button.
Wool
Many people itch when they wear or touch wool, but a true wool allergy produces more severe and bothersome skin reactions. A true wool allergy is linked to a substance called lanolin, which is naturally produced by sheep. Lanolin is also found in shampoo, lip balms, and other cosmetic products.
Laundry Detergent
Dyes and scents are two ingredients in both laundry detergent and dryer sheets that may cause allergies. Along with clothing, you might get a skin reaction from touching towels, sheets, and pillowcases washed or dried with the same products.
Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea has infinite health benefits, but it can also cause problems. You might experience a temporary reaction from drinking chamomile tea, such as coughing or sneezing. But a true allergy, which can be diagnosed through allergy testing, produces a response in the immune system to chamomile and often other herbs, too.
Latex
Found in gloves, condoms, and many household products, latex is a common allergen. Latex allergies cause skin symptoms like itching, redness, and bumps. Since latex is found in so many things, you should go to an allergy doctor in Las Vegas for a diagnosis and advice on what products to avoid.
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