Allergy symptoms may range from mild to severe. The length of time that an individual may experience symptoms for also varies. The ARIA (Allergic Rhinitis and Its Impact on Asthma) report published in collaboration with the World Health Organization defines persistent allergic rhinitis as symptoms experienced for more than four days a week and for more than four weeks a year. Intermittent allergic rhinitis is defined as symptoms experienced for less than four days a week or for less than four weeks a year. Fortunately, they may be relieved, and like any condition, the sooner they are treated the better. Your doctor can advise on the best treatment for your symptoms.
Allergic rhinitis
If you have allergic rhinitis you may experience: repeated sneezing; blocked, runny or itchy nose; distorted sense of smell or taste; and difficulty breathing. You may also experience difficulty sleeping or tiredness during the day.
If the nasal symptoms are accompanied by watering and itchy, or sore and swollen eyes then the disease is called allergic rhinoconjunctivitis.
Symptoms may be manifold: four out of ten allergic rhinitis patients experience three or more severe symptoms. Symptoms should be examined by a doctor.
Allergic asthma
If you suffer from allergic asthma (which could also be provoked by exercise) you may find it difficult to breathe, suffer coughing and tightness in the chest.
Allergic eczema or atopic dermatitis
If you have allergic eczema or dermatitis, you may suffer from severe itching, excessive dryness and scaling of the skin.
Urticaria
Urticaria, usually known as hives, brings with it raised, white and itchy swellings accompanied by severe pruritus and sometimes burning sensations.
Anaphylaxis
The most severe allergic reaction is anaphylaxis, which may start by swelling of the mouth, tongue, lips, skin and eyelids. In serious cases the reaction progresses to vomiting, wheezing, breathing difficulties and even cardiovascular collapse. If not treated promptly, anaphylactic reactions may be fatal.
Ninety percent of anaphylactic reactions are triggered by foodstuffs, but wasp or bee stings, certain drugs or latex can also cause this acute and potentially life-threatening reaction.
