Allergies - Causes

Five clues to help you figure it out.

True allergies which can be life threatening are often confused with less serious food sensitivities. Learn about the differences.

Histamines are an important part of our immune systems, but when they overreact, they can cause serious harm.

Scientists have discovered why a protein causes allergic reactions to cat dander. Their research promises to pave a path to prevention for many cat allergy sufferers.

You're congested, and you're miserable. But you don't have to let a little cold slow you down. Here are five remedies to try and one remedy to avoid.

What are the symptoms? How is it treated? Read on for the facts about this contagious eye infection.

Learn more about these chronic conditions, both which affect millions of Americans.

Gluten can lurk where you'd least expect it. Arm yourself with knowledge when it comes to these four common foods.

If you're prone skin reactions and can't figure out why, you may be allergic or sensitive to common products you use every day.

Allergy questions are nothing to sneeze at. Here, we answer six common concerns.

If, every fall, you lose a lot of locks, you could simply be experiencing seasonal hair loss. It's nothing to worry about, except if you notice a few other things.

Symptoms of lactose intolerance and an allergic reaction to milk are different. Here's how to tell them apart and what it means for you if you have to forgo dairy products for either reason.

Children who live on dairy farms and drink unpasteurized milk appear to have immunity against asthma and allergies. New findings help identify why this is the case.

One simple step will help reduce allergy symptoms: Removing your clothes when you come in from outside. Here's why.

For many, sinusitis means uncomfortable symptoms that may require the right treatment to overcome.

Can children be too clean? Some researchers say yes, and believe that an overemphasis on hygiene could be to blame for the rise in allergies among kids today.

Depending on your triggers, adding or removing the moisture in your bedroom air can lessen the risk of an asthma attack.

What should you do in the rare instance this lifesaving treatment doesn't work the way it should?

Far from a tame activity, doing the wash presents a plethora of potential allergy triggers.

Dangers can lurk anywhere from the ball game to the dentist's office. Here's how to protect yourself.

There are four different rashes you can develop from a sun allergy, but you don't need to hide inside to fix them.

You've heard of histamine when it comes to allergies, but did you know it can also play a role in food poisoning?

If you're allergic to seafood, you'll want to double-check before popping this popular pill.

Itchy, ugly welts can show up when you least expect them. Learn how to deal with hives.

Does it seem like everyone's sensitive to gluten these days? Here's why.

Supplements like bee pollen can seem like a sure road to health, but user beware.

Ticks already spell trouble, and here's another reason why.

Take a look at five surprising causes for this common irritating skin condition.

Your symptoms reflect the type of asthma that you have. And knowing your type can help with treatment.

Churg syndrome involves an overactive immune system that leads to inflammation of the blood vessels throughout the body.

Despite its benefits, if handled incorrectly a humidifier can become a breeding ground for bacteria and mold.

While most people have slightly uneven nasal passages, a severe imbalance can aggravate allergy symptoms and cause discomfort.

Consider these five things that could be making you feel worse, and find out what you could be doing better.

If dust mites, mold, and pet dander are the cause to your allergy misery, relief could come by changing the interior design of your home.

Here's how to prep when you welcome someone who is prone to cough, sneeze, itch, and even have an asthma attack because of your pet.

Learn to identify the most common culprits so you can breathe easier.

If you use air fresheners and scented candles to create a welcoming atmosphere in your home, you might just make yourself sick.

Public places are magnets for germs that cause the flu, viruses, and other illnesses. But that doesn't mean you have to stay home to avoid being exposed. Learn where the germs roam so you can take the right precautions.

Allergens can attack almost anywhere, including your own home. Follow these tips to reduce your risk.

While many food allergies begin in childhood, the fact is that at any age, you can suddenly find yourself dealing with an allergic reaction to something you've had to eat or drink.

10 back-to-school tips.

The symptoms you experience after eating a food containing gluten hold the key to whether it's an allergy or intolerance.

Does cold air cause nasal congestion? The answer may surprise you. Find out how to experience the best nasal congestion relief.

If you're allergic to fruits and veggies, know that you can still get the recommended daily amount. Learn the tricks to be able to eat your greens without the itching and scratching.

Whether you live in a bustling city, the picturesque suburbs, or in the cozy countryside, each setting has its unique challenges to asthma management. Learn how to breathe well in any setting.

Sometimes there's a thin line between determining what's a bad cold or a sinus infection. Thankfully, no guess work is needed. Here's what you need to know about this bothersome nasal condition.

EoE can be commonly confused with acid reflux disease, but it's a condition that's believed to be caused by an allergic reaction to common food proteins.

Fluid retention is a common occurrence. Here are 10 lifestyle changes you can make to help reduce or eliminate excess fluids.

If you live in an area affected by flood-inducing storms such as hurricanes, tropical storms, heavy snow fall, or other extreme weather conditions you could be left grappling with related water damage, flooding, and mold allergies.

While grass, pollen, and mold are a few of the most common allergy causes, some people's reactions can be more complicated. In some rare cases, an allergic reaction can even be triggered by an unusual combination of events or factors.

Scientists have been able to pinpoint why you could be more susceptible to suffer from an allergic response to ragweed if you also have to manage pet allergies.

With one in seven adults reportedly experiencing occupational asthma, chances are high that work could actually make you sick.

Type 1 allergies occur when a foreign substance sparks your body to produce an antibody that combines with IgE (immunoglobin E) and causes a reaction. Your entire system will be affected by a type 1 allergy, although the symptoms can vary, including sneezing, itching, coughing, hives, itchy eyes, stomach ailments, and in some cases, an anaphylactic reaction.

You love your cat with all your heart, but if you suffer from pet allergies, the object of your affection could cause episodes of sneezing, coughing, itching, and wheezing. If the misery is more than you can bear, know that you can take action.

There seems to be an overlap between allergies and a variety of chronic illnesses and researchers are trying to explore why. See what connections have been identified so far.

People who suffer from this condition have a strong sensitivity to chemicals contained in all sorts of items that are right in their living or work environment. These can be anything from water, certain fabrics, beauty products, and even medications.

Do you think of allergies as an equal opportunity disease? If so, you might be surprised to know when it comes to immune system reactions to certain foods and drinks, there seems to be a strong sex difference.

Have you ever grappled with the unexpected side effects from a medication? It's important to pinpoint the cause of these surprising reactions. Here's the right way to know if it's a true drug allergy.

The number of people affected by severe allergies has been on the rise recently, and the experts say that global warming could be to blame.

The American Academy of Dermatology stresses the importance of using sunscreen before stepping outdoors to reduce your risk of skin cancer. But what if you're allergic to sunscreen? Does that mean you have to forego summer pleasures or put yourself at risk of getting burned? Absolutely not.

You may jog or take exercise classes regularly to help look and feel your best. But if you're one of the few people who suffer from exercise-induced anaphylaxis, participating in strenuous activities can put your health at serious risk.

It's possible to manage your allergies so they won't interfere too much on your daily life. The key is to take steps to avoid your allergy triggers and manage your symptoms as needed.

You'd think that water would be a safe bet for people with allergies, right? Yet for a very small group of people, this isn't the case. A rare allergy to water, called aquagenic urticaria, makes daily living extra challenging for them.

Allergies to the nickel metal contained in coins and costume jewelry are a common problem that affects about 10 percent of Americans. Here are simple steps you can take to minimize reactions.

You may jog or take exercise classes regularly to help look and feel your best. But if you're one of the few people who suffer from exercise-induced anaphylaxis, participating in strenuous activities can put your health at serious risk.

Got a blistery rash on your skin after spending some time outdoors? That rash could be caused by an allergic reaction to one of these poisonous plants. Learn what to look for to steer clear from the unsightly rashes.

Warm weather means heading to the beach, basking in the sun, or enjoying a hike or bike ride, but along with the outdoor fun come those pesky bugs. And for some asthmatics who have allergies to insect bites, being stung by a bug can have deadly consequences.

After finishing a delicious meal, you suddenly feel itchy and your stomach hurts. Could the problem be caused by a food allergy or a food intolerance? It can be difficult to tell at first, but there are signs that can help you get to the root of the problem.

Having a collection of spices could be the best way to get the right taste to your recipes. But exposure to certain spices could push your immune system into overdrive. Here's what you need to know.

A bouquet of flowers may put your allergies in full bloom, but you don't have to forego a pretty vase of buds on your table or steer clear of a garden all season long. There are a host of flower types you can enjoy without an unpleasant allergic reaction.

Your allergies will begin blooming right along with the flowers and other greenery. Experts say that avoiding your triggers is always the best way to head off your seasonal suffering. But if you can't escape pollen, mold, and other allergens, it's essential that you find the right allergy medication to tackle your allergy symptoms.

The arrival of spring may warm your spirits, but if you suffer from seasonal allergies, it can also put a damper on your well-being. With milder temperatures comes rain, thunderstorms, and heavy winds, which can ignite uncomfortable allergy symptoms. Here, tips on how to keep your symptoms to a minimum during spring and every other season, too.

Not only does indoor and outdoor air quality affect asthma symptoms, but these foods can also wreak havoc on your lungs.

Ever enjoy a glass of wine with dinner, only to be marred by sneezing, a rash, or other aggravating symptoms? If so, you may be one of the millions of people coping with the effects of a wine allergy.

Sometimes allergies and asthma can go hand-in-hand. And here's why.

If you're finding yourself itching, wheezing, and sneezing at night, your four-legged friend could certainly be to blame. Here's how to transition your pet out of your bedroom without causing heartache on both ends.

Most people enjoy having sex, but for a small group of men, the very act of having an orgasm can make them sick.

Is it possible that allergy immunotherapy--a treatment that helps your body build up a tolerance to your worst allergy triggers--can simultaneously put you at risk for developing a new allergy?

If you live near a busy roadway and find yourself short of breath or constantly wheezing, your address could be to blame.

Mold tends to breed in all sorts of warm, damp, and humid areas both inside and outside of your home. But did you also know that certain molds can grow right inside your lungs?

Many people consider kiwis to be their favorite fruit. Sweet and juicy, these delicious picks are high in fiber, potassium, and handful of essential vitamins. Yet as the popularity of kiwis grow, so do the number of people who are allergic.

It's nothing to sneeze at. Millions of kids suffer from allergies and asthma. Here are some of the reasons why.

You go to the gym for health and wellness purposes, but this fitness-intense environment can intensify your allergic asthma symptoms. Head off these triggers before you head out.

Every once in a while, allergy symptoms can be overwhelmingly intolerable. But can it be so intolerable that thoughts of suicide emerge?

Love the look of tattoos and body piercings? While these forms of body art are great for expressing individuality, they can also start allergy symptoms. And cosmetic products are no exception. That is why you should proceed with caution when exploring any of these options.

When talking on your cell phone for long periods of time, do you find that your cheek and ear seem to be irritated or blistered afterward? If this sounds familiar, it s not a coincidence.

Kissing is a great way to show your affection. But did you know that a greeting from someone else's lips can spark a serious reaction if you suffer from a food or medication allergy? Learn how best to protect yourself from before you pucker up.

If you experience deep, painful aches, you may wonder if it could stem from allergies in some way, although it's possible for them to co-occur, experts say that joint pain and allergies are usually not related.

Your work environment could be making you sick. Wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath might be indicators that something at work is triggering your symptoms.

You consider your pet to be an essential part of your family. Which is why you worry when you hear him sneeze. Can it be a cold, or is it allergies? It's not only people who suffer from allergies.

If you suffer from allergies, this joyful season may bring many health challenges. Beware of these four common activities that can spark your allergy symptoms.

Do you want to keep your pet or do you want to breathe better? Thankfully, you may not have to make that choice after all.

Did you know that allergic rhinitis is just another name for hay fever? If you suffer from this condition, relief is possible.

Your favorite fragrance may be giving off more than just a nice scent.

Ragweed allergies can consist of never ending itchiness and a terrible time of coughing and sneezing. But did you know it can also depress you?

Could tick bites and red meat allergies have a common link? The connection between the two might surprise you.

If you love that tart rush you get when you bite into an apple, but find that it's usually followed by an itchy feeling in your mouth or on your tongue, it could be allergies.

Identifying causes for post nasal drip is the only way to find the best treatment. Though it can be difficult to decipher, consider these possible culprits.

If you still feel miserable after many attempts to treat your allergies, you might want to retrace your steps to see what you can do differently.

Is your job making you sick? If you work in a soy processing plant and suffer from asthma, you certainly could be in danger according to a study.

Do you look forward to autumn, or do you dread months of coughing and sneezing? Here, ten tried and true methods to prevent fall allergies.

Does ragweed season make you miserable? Here is how you can manage and prevent these irritating allergy symptoms.

There are many benefits nursing can bring, such as a special bond with your newborn and a boost to his immune system. However, for a few women, the very act of breastfeeding can put their own health at risk.

Conjunctivitis or "pink eye" can be irritating. See whether or not your conjunctivitis is caused by allergies or is a contagious infection.

If you touched poison ivy, you might wonder if it's contagious. Find out what an allergic reaction looks like and what you can do to prevent it.

Does mold flare up your asthma or allergies? Preventing mold triggers and proactively keeping your home mold-free can be the best way to evict this pest.

Dealing with egg allergies can be difficult. Read on to learn about the latest findings and ways you can prevent an egg allergy from happening.

Are you not sure if you have allergies or a cold? These signs will help you tell the difference.

If you think allergies are to blame for the situation, you might be surprised to find out you're wrong.

Is it a cold or allergies? Your mucus can help you differentiate.

As summer winds to a close, if there's no sign of your allergies cooling down, you may be one of the 36 million Americans that the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI) estimates may suffer from a ragweed allergy.

If you're prone to seasonal allergies, you may find that the high pollen count that comes with the warmer weather leaves you coughing and sneezing.

For the two million Americans with serious insect allergies, a bee sting is more than a nuisance. It can also cause a serious, or potentially fatal, reaction if not treated promptly.

Fungal allergies are common, and people with a mold or other fungal allergy are also at increased risk to experience allergic asthma, according to the latest research findings.

Have you heard about the link between allergies and ear infection? If not, you may want to listen up.

Are yeast allergies for real? Many conventional doctors are skeptical about this widespread diagnosis, saying that it's very rare and in most cases, doesn't really exist.

Dietary modification, environmental modifications, and allergy medications can all help in preventing the onset of allergy-related migraines.

When the flowers and trees start to bloom each year, do you find your allergies springing into gear? If so, you should read this.

Did you know that for a small portion of the population, the existence of these and other such modern electronic devices can cause a host of physical ailments?

Perhaps you've tried all of the time and your body aches, but your doctor can't find anything specificly wrong with you. If this sounds all too familiar, you could have a chronic condition called fibromyalgia.

There s no shortage of talk in the news media about global warming and how it hurts the environment. But did you ever stop to think that the effects of global warming might be having a direct impact on your personal health?

Who doesn't love the seasonal smells candles bring to the home? Well, despite the intoxicating aromas, you may be putting yourself at risk.

Many people find that their allergy symptoms can be traced back to the fabric, treatment, or even color of the things they wear.

Have you or a loved one survived a life-threatening disease? Are you currently struggling with depression, chronic pain, heart disease, or other health-related condition? Have you gone to extraordinary lengths to help someone in a health crisis? If so, we want to hear from you!

If you've got a few extra pounds that won't seem to bulge no matter how much you diet and exercise, food allergies could be to blame.

These common allergens could be making you miserable.

An uncommon condition in some women causes itching and burning during intimacy, but fortunately, it is treatable.

Learn what to do when your most treasured piece of jewelry is causing you irritation, soreness, and pain.

If you enjoy having a glass of wine with dinner or a few beers at happy hour, you're certainly not alone. But have you ever found that even a small amount of alcohol causes you to have a negative reaction?

Are you allergic to dust? Find out what you can do to beat the sneeze.

Find out if race really does affect your allergy risk.

The symptoms are sometimes hard to decipher between.

If you woke up this morning with a runny nose and cough and have been sneezing and feeling an itch in the back of your throat and your nose, you may wonder if this is just your typical seasonal allergy attack or if you could have be coming down with a case of the Swine Flu.

Learn about this growing allergy--and if you might be at risk.

This popular music player could be aggravating your allergies.

It's bad enough that you have asthma, but to make matters worse, do you also have to suffer from a variety of other illnesses?

It's official: you have allergies and your doctor has even helped you to identify your biggest triggers. But what next?

Find out if this popular treatment can help ease your symptoms.

If you suffer from a range of uncomfortable gastrointestinal symptoms every time you eat foods containing wheat, rye, malt, barley and oats, a gluten allergy could be to blame for your distress.

What is chemical or environmental illness and how can you lower your risk?

Find ways to manage your allergies.

If you started off with allergy symptoms that seem to have worsened into a headache, pressure and pain in your face that just won't go away, it may be time to visit your doctor. You could have a sinus infection that needs to be treated with antibiotics.

Research is finding that it is possible that allergies, like many other diseases and conditions, could have a strong genetic component.

Are your allergies inherited?

Find out why it is essential to take the time to educate yourself about the signs of a seafood allergy.

Your home is crawling with bacteria. Where are the biggest hotspots?

Is your city making you sneeze? High pollen and mold counts make some places worse than others.

'Tis the season for allergies. Learn how keep them from spoiling your holiday fun.