What do allergies cause

Decongestants work by shrinking swollen nasal membranes to relieve sinus congestion. Decongestants come in pills and nasal sprays. However, nasal decongestants such as oxymetazoline Afrin can make your congestion worse if you use them for more than three days in a row. Nasal corticosteroids bring down swelling in the nose by blocking inflammation. They also lower the number of allergy-activated immune cells in the nasal passages.

These medications continue to be one of the best ways of controlling and treating both seasonal and year-round allergies. Eye drops can relieve itchiness and watering. Allergy shots gradually expose you to small amounts of the allergen. This exposure helps to desensitize your body to the substance. These can be a very effective long-term solution for eliminating allergies. While some allergy and cold symptoms are similar, these are two very different health conditions.

Both colds and allergies can cause viruses and bacteria to collect in the sinuses and lower airways, which can lead to more serious infections. Learn more about the ways you can treat a stuffy nose, or nasal congestion, at home, including tips on decongestants, humidifiers, and steam remedies. You may have heard that you can sweat out a cold, but is this an effective remedy? Learn more here. Typically, postnasal drip can be alleviated at home. Try these remedies and OTC products to relieve your symptoms.

Salt water gargles are touted as an effective and easy home remedy for a sore throat. We explain why, plus additional benefits.

Can apple cider vinegar be used for colds? We explain the benefits of apple cider vinegar, and what the science says about it treating the common cold. What does research say about whether you should exercise with a cold? Just a quick refresher: An allergic reaction occurs when your body perceives a harmless substance—such as certain foods, pollen, or pet dander—as a threat. Allergic reactions don't just affect the skin—they can also impact the nose, throat, lungs, ears, sinuses, and stomach lining, per the AAAAI.

But allergy rashes can be uncomfortable and shouldn't be ignored, according to experts. Below, you'll find info on three common types of allergy rashes—eczema, contact dermatitis, and hives—including treatment options and advice on what to do if the rash doesn't go away after treating it.

Some people with eczema will experience all of the above symptoms, while others will experience just one or two, according to the NEA. But food isn't the only trigger: " Seasonal allergies could certainly cause eczema exacerbation," Kanwaljit Brar, MD, an allergist with advanced training in dermatology at NYU Langone, tells Health.

Where the eczema breakout occurs might depend on the age of the patient, per the AAAAI, which states that the rash usually forms on the knees, elbows, cheeks, and scalp in children, but might also occur on the face, wrists, and neck of adults, in addition to their elbows and knees.

A number of treatments are available for eczema patients, and common options include topical moisturizers that lessen itching and topical steroids, which are anti-inflammatory medications that can treat the rash caused by eczema.

Allergic contact dermatitis is another allergy-related rash, which, as you probably guessed, is caused by coming into contact with an allergen. A number of triggers can cause allergic contact dermatitis, including shampoos, makeup products, and nickel jewelry, Dr. Purcell says. Poison ivy, along with certain fragrances and preservatives are some of the main causes of allergic contact dermatitis, per the Cleveland Clinic. Mucosal glands secrete mucus, a sticky fluid that covers the throat walls, thus protecting them and allowing smooth passage of the air and food.

When mucous glands do not secrete enough mucus, for example, due to dehydration, medications or dry air, throat nerves become exposed and irritable.

Even food allergies can cause a sore throat. This is a much more serious allergic reaction than an irritated throat. Otolaryngology — Head and Neck Surgery. Allergies and hay fever. Types of allergies. Who has allergies? What causes asthma? American Lung Association.

Is rinsing your sinuses with neti pots safe? Food and Drug Administration. Related Allergy medications: Know your options Allergy-proof your home Does honey offer sweet relief for allergies? Nasal Cleaning Nasal spray addiction: Is it real? Show more related content.

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