Allergies start when your immune system mistakes a substance that is normally harmless for a dangerous invader. Your immune system then produces antibodies that remain on guard for that specific allergen. When you are exposed to that allergen again, the antibodies can release a number of chemicals, such as histamine, and that may cause allergy symptoms. 

Common Allergy Triggers

Allergies can be triggered by many types of allergens, and can be seasonal. Common triggers include:

• Airborne Allergens - These may include pollen, animal dander, dust mites, and mold. Airborne allergens may also act up during the spring, when trees bounce back to life and begin releasing pollen into the air. 
• Certain Foods - Food allergies have a very large range, but the most popular allergens are peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, soy, fish, shellfish, eggs, and milk.
• Insect Stings - These include stings from bees or wasps. Non stinging insects can also cause allergic reactions, like cockroaches and dust mites.
• Medications - Particularly penicillin or penicillin-based antibiotics
• Latex or Other Substances You Touch - These can include detergents and soaps and can cause skin reactions.

There are also times when a severe allergic reaction can occur without a known cause and this is called idiopathic anaphylaxis. This is usually only diagnosed after all other causes have been ruled out as causes.

Risk Factors and Complications

There are a few reasons that you may either develop an allergy or have medical problems, such as:

• Having a Family History of Asthma or Allergies
• Young Age
• Having Asthma
• Sinusitis or Ear or lung Infections
• Anaphylaxis

To help manage "allergens in your life, see your doctor soon and regularly!