Typically, allergies occur if your immune system reacts to any foreign substance such as can be pollen, bee venom, pet dander, or sometimes, certain foods as well. According to reports, in the United States alone, various common allergies have affected an estimated 40 million to 50 million people.

There are seasonal allergies that affect people every year and are commonly known about but aside from them, it is essential to know more about the various types and main triggers of allergies.

Generally, allergies exist in different forms. Read on to know more about them.

Types and main triggers of allergies

• Food allergy
  This usually occurs when your body’s natural defence system overreacts to the exposure to a particular substance. In such situations, the body treats certain food items or particles as invaders and sends out chemicals to defend against them. As per studies, more than 50 million Americans suffer from some kind of food allergy. As per reports, food allergies affect 4% to 6% of children and 4% of adults. It is to be noted that the symptoms of food allergies are common in babies and children, though they can affect people of any age. Food items such as nuts and seafood are the most common triggers of this allergy.
• Skin allergy
  Redness, bumps and itching are some of the common types of skin allergies. The causes of these aren’t always easily identifiable. For example, rashes can be caused by multiple triggers that can include certain plants like poison ivy, food or allergic reactions to medication as well. Sometimes, rashes can also be triggered by various illnesses such as chickenpox or measles. Further, eczema and hives are also related to allergies and are the most common types of skin rashes. The symptoms of skin allergies are usually irritating, painful, and embarrassing
• Dust allergy
  People with dust allergies usually have a stuffy or runny nose, and due to which their eyes become red and watery. The symptoms of dust allergy often worsen immediately after or during sweeping, vacuuming, and dusting.
• Insect sting allergy
  Stings from these insects including yellow jackets, wasps, honeybees, hornets, wasps, and fire ants are generally known for triggering allergic reactions. This is one of the major causes of allergic reaction in the United States and a large number of people who are suffering from insect stings get admitted to clinics and hospital every year. According to reports, potentially life-threatening allergic reactions occur among 3% of adults and 0.4% to 0.8% of children.
• Pet allergy
  While playing with or petting your dog or cat, if you usually sneeze, wheeze, or your eyes become watery almost immediately, then you are suffering from a pet allergy. Typically, pet allergies can contribute to constant allergic symptoms. This is because the exposure can occur across various environments such as at work, school, and the daycare, among others.

Knowing what signs and symptoms to look out for regarding various types and main triggers of allergies helps you seek treatment faster than you might have otherwise.