An allergic reaction is actually a defense of the body. It is an over-reaction of the immune system to an otherwise harmless substance.
Although knowledge of a previous history of allergic reaction can help identify the cause, it is not set in stone. Allergic reactions can happen even without precedent, and previous allergies may go away. Also, the severity of reactions is not always the same. What might be eye irritation one time may result in anaphylaxis the next; Must Read - Immediate First Aid – Anaphylaxis.
Almost anything can cause an allergic reaction. It is dependent on the person. Some common examples are animals, dust, foods (usually within 30 minutes), insects (allergic reaction from stings usually occur within 5 minutes), medications (usually within 30 minutes) and plants.
Symptoms of Allergic Reactions
Symptoms are varied. Some common ones are:
Eye irritation and/or redness. The big difference from an eye infection is the lack of milky discharge.
Gastrointestinal problems, e.g., diarrhea.
Hives.
Rash.
Sneezing.
Stuffy nose.
Swelling.
Wheezing.
Treatment for Allergic Reactions
Treat symptoms.
Clean, dry and ventilate area well.
Remove cause.
Monitor for signs of anaphylaxis; Must Read - Immediate First Aid – Anaphylaxis.
Pharmaceuticals:
Antihistamine.
Alternative/Natural Remedies:
For hives or rashes, make a poultice out of fresh cilantro and apply it topically.
Prevention of Allergic Reactions
Avoid contact with known irritants.
Long clothing.
Topical creams as barriers.
Post-exposure washes.
Hay-fever is a common allergic reaction specifically to do with something that has been breathed in, e.g., dust, fungi, pollens.
Irritated eyes.
Itchy skin.
Itchy throat.
Nasal congestion.
Red eyes.
Sneezing.
Tearing.
Treat symptoms.
Clean, dry and ventilate area well.
Remove cause.
Pharmaceuticals:
Antihistamine.