Allergies can occur on the skin, through breathing, or even when eating certain foods. Learn about the many types of allergies and their main symptoms.
An allergy is an exaggerated immune system response to common substances such as dust, pollen, food, or medications. Not all allergies present the same: some cause mild discomfort, while others can be life-threatening.
Below, we’ll show you the most common types of allergies and how they manifest so you can learn to recognize and differentiate them.
Respiratory allergies
These are among the most common and include allergic rhinitis and asthma. The former causes congestion, sneezing, and excessive nasal discharge due to contact with dust, pollen, or pet dander. In the case of asthma, the inflammation reaches the bronchi, making breathing difficult and potentially triggering severe attacks.
Skin allergies
They directly affect the skin and include hives, atopic dermatitis, and contact dermatitis. These reactions can cause red spots, intense itching, dryness, or scaling. In some cases, they occur only in the area that came into contact with the allergen, such as when using latex products or brushing against certain plants.
Food allergies
They manifest primarily in the digestive system with abdominal pain, diarrhea, bloating, or constipation. The most commonly associated foods are milk, eggs, and seafood. In addition to digestive discomfort, they may also be accompanied by skin symptoms or respiratory problems.
Drug allergy
Any adverse reaction to a drug should be taken seriously. These allergies can cause skin rashes, dizziness, vomiting, and, in severe cases, difficulty breathing. Some reactions can even become fatal if not treated promptly.
Insect and plant allergies
Insect bites or contact with plants can trigger exaggerated reactions with localized swelling, pain, or fever. In extreme situations, the response can lead to anaphylaxis, a serious condition that compromises the entire body and requires urgent medical attention.
Seasonal allergies
Also known as environmental allergies, they occur at certain times of the year, especially in spring and fall, when pollen and spores are at a higher concentration. Symptoms include watery eyes, sneezing, and congestion, affecting quality of life for weeks.
Cold allergy
Although less well-known, this allergy occurs when the skin comes into contact with low temperatures. It can cause hives, redness, itching, or localized swelling. In more severe cases, prolonged exposure to cold can trigger dizziness, headache, or difficulty breathing.