You can run, but you cannot hide

You are constantly being bombarded by allergens and will not always be able to outrun them.

Below is a list of the most common allergens that could be responsible for your allergies/allergy symptoms. Try to identify which ones could potentially be causing your allergies. Being able to avoid the trigger of your allergies would be the best way to keep your allergies under control.¹

1. An overactive immune system^1,2
   Your immune system maybe more prone to feel under attack when it comes into contact with certain substances. The substances may even be harmless like grass. (The most common types of grasses that may cause allergies are Bermuda, Johnson, Kentucky, Orchard, Rye, Sweet Vernal and Timothy).
2. Pollen¹
   Pollen is produced by plants such as grasses, trees, and weeds and can trigger hay fever or seasonal allergies. You might sneeze, have a runny or stuffy nose and/or itchy, watery eyes. To help prevent symptoms, stay inside on windy days/thunderstorms when pollen counts are high, close windows, and run the air conditioning.
3. Animal dander¹
   You love your pet, but if you’re allergic, you may react to proteins in your pet’s saliva or in skin’s oil glands. Make your bedroom a pet-free zone, opt for bare floors and washable rugs instead of carpets, and bathe your pet regularly.
4. Dust mites¹
   These tiny bugs live in bedding, mattresses, upholstery, carpets, and curtains. They feed on dead skin cells from people and pets, as well as on pollen, bacteria, and fungi. They thrive in high humidity.
   To cut down on problems, use hypoallergenic pillows, cover mattresses, pillows, box springs, and wash sheets weekly in hot water. Keep the house free of dust-collecting items such as stuffed animals, curtains, and carpets.
5. Insect stings¹
   These could cause swelling and redness that may last a week or more. You might feel sick to your stomach and tired and have a low fever. In rare cases, insect bites trigger a reaction that can be life-threatening, called anaphylaxis. If you’re severely allergic, you’ll need medicine called epinephrine right away. Your doctor may recommend allergy shots to prevent reactions.
6. Mold¹
   Mold needs moisture to grow. You can find it in damp places such as basements or bathrooms, as well as in grass or mulch. The mold spores can cause an allergic reaction when you breathe it in.
   Avoid activities such as raking leaves and promote air movement in moist areas within your home.
7. Certain foods ¹
   Milk, shellfish, eggs, and nuts are among the most common foods that cause allergies. Others include wheat, soy, and fish. Within minutes of eating something you’re allergic to, you could have trouble breathing and get hives, vomiting, diarrhoea, and swelling around your mouth.
8. Latex¹
   Found in some disposable gloves, condoms, and medical devices. Latex can trigger a reaction ranging from itchy, red skin to anaphylaxis with breathing trouble.
   Symptoms can include a rash or hives, eye irritation, runny or itchy nose, sneezing, and wheezing.
9. Medication¹
   Penicillin, aspirin, and other medications can cause hives, itchy eyes, stuffiness, and swelling in your face, mouth, and throat. If you’re allergic to a medication, it’s best not to take it.
   Your doctor can talk to you about other medicine options or treatments that may allow you to take a medicine you’re allergic to if it’s necessary.
10. Cockroaches¹
    Interestingly however there is a protein in their droppings which can be a trigger.
    Keep a clean kitchen, repair cracks and holes in floors, walls, and windows to keep them out of your home.

If you have severe allergies wear a medical alert bracelet and keep the appropriate medication with you at all times. You never know when your body will think it is under attack.