Allergies

Acacia trees are ornamental plants that produce allergenic pollen. They typically bloom from late winter to spring, releasing pollen that can trigger seasonal allergy symptoms. People living in areas with many acacia trees may experience increased allergic reactions during these bloom periods.

Acarus siro, commonly known as the flour mite, is a species often found in stored grains and flour. These mites can thrive in kitchen cupboards and pantries, particularly in humid conditions. For sensitive individuals, exposure may trigger allergic symptoms and can be especially problematic for those with existing respiratory conditions.

Alder pollen is a common early spring allergen released by alder trees during their blooming season. This pollen can trigger allergic reactions such as hay fever (allergic rhinitis) in sensitive individuals. Symptoms often worsen on dry, windy days when pollen dispersal is at its highest.

Almond allergy is a condition that reflects the immune system’s reaction to proteins found in almonds, a type of tree nut. It is one of the more common tree nut allergies and can cause symptoms ranging from mild irritation to severe, potentially life-threatening reactions.

Allergies to almonds, pine nuts, and sunflower seeds are immune responses triggered by proteins found in these nuts and seeds. These reactions can lead to a range of symptoms, and understanding, identifying, and managing these allergies is important for maintaining safety and overall health.

Alternaria alternata is a mold that releases spores into the air, causing allergic reactions. It grows on various plants and materials, thriving in warm, damp conditions. People sensitive to this mold may experience symptoms during dry, windy weather when spore levels are highest.

Apple allergy is an allergic reaction to proteins found in apples, often linked to Oral Allergy Syndrome (OAS). It commonly occurs in people allergic to birch pollen, as similar proteins in apples can trigger cross-reactivity. Symptoms can range from mild oral discomfort to more pronounced reactions, though severe cases are uncommon.

Pollen from ash trees, which is a common allergen during springtime. Can induce respiratory symptoms in allergic individuals.

Aspergillus fumigatus is a common mold found in soil, decaying organic matter, and sometimes indoor environments. It is a notable allergen that can trigger respiratory conditions such as allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) in susceptible individuals, especially those with asthma or cystic fibrosis.

Grass pollen that is a significant cause of seasonal allergies, especially in late spring and early summer.

Barley is a widely used grain found in various foods and beverages — from bread and cereals to beer. For some individuals, barley can cause an allergic reaction due to its protein content. Recognizing the symptoms and properly managing a barley allergy is important for those affected.

Bee venom allergy is a condition where the immune system overreacts to proteins in bee venom following a sting. This allergic reaction can cause symptoms ranging from mild local swelling to severe systemic responses, including life-threatening anaphylaxis. Recognizing and understanding these signs is essential for effective management and treatment.

Bermuda grass pollen allergy is a type of allergic reaction to the pollen released by Bermuda grass, a common grass species in warmer regions often used in lawns, parks, and golf courses. This allergy is a form of seasonal allergic rhinitis, typically occurring during the grass-pollinating seasons in late spring and summer.

Pollen from birch trees, a common trigger of hay fever, asthma, and other respiratory allergies in the spring.

Shellfish allergies are a type of food allergy that affect both adults and children. This allergy often involves a variety of shellfish, including blue mussel, oyster, clam, and scallop. Because allergic reactions can be severe, understanding how to recognize and manage a shellfish allergy is essential for those affected.

Buckwheat intolerance is a condition in which the body has difficulty digesting buckwheat, leading to digestive symptoms. Unlike a buckwheat allergy, which triggers an immune response and can cause severe reactions, intolerance is generally limited to gastrointestinal discomfort.

Cacao, the main component of chocolate, is enjoyed by many but can also trigger allergic reactions in some individuals. An allergy to cacao can cause a range of symptoms, from mild skin or digestive issues to respiratory problems, and in rare cases, anaphylaxis. Recognizing your body’s response to cacao and related products is important for supporting overall health and well-being.

Allergenic protein found in the skin, saliva, and urine of cats, which can cause respiratory issues and asthma.

The Cross-reactive Carbohydrate Determinants (CCDs) role refers to the influence of complex sugar structures found on the surface of plant and animal proteins in allergy testing. These structures can cause cross-reactivity, leading to false-positive results. Understanding CCDs is essential for accurate allergy diagnosis and avoiding misinterpretation of test outcomes.

Cheddar cheese allergy is a reaction linked to cow’s milk allergy, as cheddar is made from cow’s milk. It is triggered by milk proteins such as casein and whey. Recognizing the symptoms and knowing how to manage the allergy are important for those affected.

Citrus mix allergy refers to an allergic reaction to a combination of citrus fruits without specifying individual types. This category often includes oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruits, and may also involve tangerines, pomelos, and related varieties. The reaction is triggered by proteins common to these fruits, which can cause a range of allergy symptoms.

Mold that can cause respiratory problems and exacerbate asthma, prevalent in damp environments.

Insect allergen from cockroaches, which can contribute to respiratory issues and trigger asthma.

Fish commonly consumed and used in various culinary dishes. Cod allergies can provoke digestive symptoms and anaphylaxis.

Common pigweed is a widespread plant known for its highly allergenic pollen. Its pollen can trigger hay fever and other allergic reactions, particularly in late summer and fall. Individuals sensitive to pigweed may experience symptoms during its peak pollination period.

Common ragweed is a plant known to trigger hay fever. As one of the most prolific pollen producers, ragweed can affect people even several kilometers away from the source. The high pollen levels are a leading cause of seasonal allergic rhinitis, which affects many people as summer turns to autumn.

Cottonwood trees are known for producing fluffy, cotton-like seeds and pollen that can trigger seasonal allergies. In spring, their pollen becomes airborne — especially on windy days — and may cause symptoms such as sneezing, nasal congestion, and itchy eyes in sensitive individuals.

Crayfish allergy is an allergic reaction to proteins found in crayfish, a type of shellfish. It can range from mild to severe and, in some cases, be potentially life-threatening. People with a crayfish allergy may react not only from eating crayfish but also from inhaling steam released during cooking.

Cucumber intolerance is a condition in which the body has difficulty digesting cucumber, often resulting in gastrointestinal discomfort. Unlike a cucumber allergy, which triggers an immune response and can cause more severe reactions, cucumber intolerance typically leads to digestive symptoms after consumption.

Cultivated oat grass (Avena sativa) is a common cereal crop grown widely across temperate regions. In addition to its use in agriculture, it is a known airborne allergen. During its pollination season, oat grass releases pollen that can become airborne and inhaled, potentially triggering allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Reactions may include symptoms such as sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy eyes, and respiratory irritation. It is one of many grasses whose pollen can contribute to seasonal allergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever.

Cultivated rye releases pollen, a well-known trigger of seasonal allergies. Its pollen season can overlap with the grass pollen season, worsening symptoms for people who are allergic to grass pollen. When rye fields are flowering, nearby communities may notice an increase in hay fever symptoms.

Pollen from cypress trees, prevalent in the spring and fall. Known to cause hay fever and asthma symptom.

Dandelions are commonly known as weeds or herbal remedies, but they can also cause allergic reactions or intolerances in some people. These reactions often result from exposure to dandelion pollen or direct contact with the plant. Recognizing this potential allergy is important, especially during their peak blooming season.

Dermatophagoides farinae (D. farinae), also known as the American house dust mite, is a common allergen found in household dust. These mites are widespread in carpets, bedding, and upholstered furniture, where they feed on human skin cells. Their fecal matter and body fragments can trigger allergic reactions throughout the year, often contributing to allergic rhinitis and asthma.

Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (D. pteronyssinus), commonly known as the European house dust mite, is a common indoor allergen. These microscopic organisms thrive in warm, humid environments and feed on organic matter such as shed human skin flakes. Their body fragments and waste products can provoke allergic reactions and asthma in sensitive individuals.

Allergenic protein found in the skin, saliva, and urine of dogs, leading to respiratory issues and skin reactions.

Eel meat intolerance is a condition that reflects difficulty in digesting eel meat, a type of seafood commonly enjoyed in various cuisines, especially in Asia and Europe. Unlike an eel meat allergy, which triggers an immune response, intolerance mainly causes digestive discomfort such as stomach pain or upset after eating eel or dishes containing it.

False ragweed (Parthenium hysterophorus), also known as parthenium weed, is an invasive plant species native to the Americas but now found across many parts of the world. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is a notable allergen due to its highly potent airborne pollen. The plant typically flowers in late summer and autumn, releasing pollen that can trigger allergic rhinitis, asthma, and contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals. Inhalant allergy tests often include false ragweed due to its increasing prevalence and allergenic strength.

Garlic and onion, members of the Allium family, are widely used ingredients in cuisines around the world. However, for some individuals, these foods can trigger allergic reactions due to their distinctive compounds. Understanding and managing garlic and onion allergies is important for maintaining a healthy, symptom-free diet.

Goldenrod is a flowering plant often mistaken as the cause of hay fever, but the real culprit is usually ragweed, which blooms at the same time and produces highly allergenic pollen. Goldenrod’s pollen is heavy and sticky, making it less likely to become airborne. While allergic reactions to goldenrod can occur, they are uncommon and usually involve symptoms similar to hay fever.

Guinea pig allergy is a reaction caused by proteins found in the animal’s dander, saliva, and urine. People with this allergy may develop symptoms after contact with guinea pigs or their living environments. These symptoms can occur immediately or emerge gradually with repeated exposure.

Hamster allergies are a condition caused by allergens present in a hamster’s dander, saliva, and urine. These allergens can trigger reactions in people through direct contact with the animal or from airborne exposure. Such allergic responses are common in homes with hamsters or in pet care environments.

Hazel trees are early bloomers that signal the beginning of allergy season for many individuals. Their catkins release large amounts of pollen as early as winter or spring, which can trigger significant allergic reactions in people sensitive to tree pollen.

Pollen from hazelnut trees, known to cause respiratory allergies during its pollination period.

Allergenic animal dander that can cause respiratory symptoms and skin reactions

House dust allergies are caused by various components of dust — including dust mites, pet dander, mold spores, and pollen. These allergens can trigger symptoms that affect daily life, making it important to reduce exposure and manage the home environment effectively.

Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria) is known for producing highly allergenic pollen. This pollen can trigger a condition called "cedar fever," which causes strong allergic reactions. The pollen is typically released from winter to early spring and can be especially intense in areas where these trees are common, affecting many people.

Japanese hop (Humulus japonicus) is an invasive climbing plant that blooms in late summer, releasing pollen that can trigger allergic reactions. This pollen plays a significant role in seasonal allergies, especially for those sensitive to it, with symptoms often worsening in urban areas where the plant is more widespread.

Johnson grass (Sorghum halepense) is a fast-growing perennial grass native to the Mediterranean region but now widespread in many parts of the world, especially in warm and temperate climates. It is considered both an agricultural weed and a potent source of airborne allergens. Its pollen is released during the warm months and can trigger allergic reactions in susceptible individuals, particularly those with seasonal allergic rhinitis or asthma. Johnson grass is part of the Poaceae (grass) family, which includes many cross-reactive species.

Shellfish that is a common allergen, causing symptoms such as hives, swelling, and anaphylaxis.

Fruit allergies, such as those to kiwi, mango, and banana, are increasingly recognized and reflect the body’s immune response to specific proteins in these fruits. These allergies can cause a range of symptoms, from mild discomfort to severe reactions, and identifying and managing them effectively is essential for maintaining health and well-being.

Lamb's quarters (Chenopodium album) is a common wild plant found in many temperate regions across the world. While it’s sometimes consumed as a leafy green in foraging and traditional cuisines, it is also a known source of airborne allergens. The plant produces fine, powdery pollen during the summer, which can become airborne and cause allergic reactions such as hay fever, nasal congestion, and asthma symptoms in sensitive individuals. Due to its wide distribution and allergenic potential, lamb's quarters is often included in inhalant allergy panels.

Lenscale refers to microscopic particles of shed skin, hair, or feathers from animals, primarily pets such as cats and dogs. These particles can become airborne, settle on furniture, bedding, or carpets, and trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Unlike larger fur clumps, lenscale is extremely light and often invisible to the eye, which makes it a persistent allergen indoors even in clean environments. Allergic reactions to lenscale are caused by specific proteins found in the skin secretions or saliva of animals, which adhere to these fine particles. Even without direct animal contact, individuals can experience symptoms if exposed to contaminated environments.

Lobster and Pacific Squid are seafood delicacies enjoyed by many but can trigger allergic reactions in some individuals. These allergies may cause symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to severe, potentially life-threatening reactions. Recognizing and managing allergies to lobster and Pacific squid is important for those at risk.

Maple leaf sycamore, also known as sycamore maple, is a major cause of spring allergies. Its pollen can irritate sensitive individuals, resulting in seasonal allergic rhinitis. Symptoms tend to worsen on sunny, windy days when pollen levels are highest in the air.

Meat allergy is a condition in which the immune system mistakenly targets certain proteins in meat as harmful. This triggers an allergic reaction that can range from mild to severe. Unlike food intolerances that mainly affect digestion, meat allergies may cause symptoms affecting the skin, respiratory system, and overall health.

Dust mite allergen, which is a common indoor allergen causing respiratory issues and skin reactions.

Allergies to mice and rats are a common concern, especially in laboratory environments or households where these animals are kept as pets. Allergens from mice and rats—found in their urine, dander, and saliva—can become airborne and trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Pollen from mugwort plants, often causing respiratory symptoms in sensitive individuals during its peak season.

Oak trees are abundant pollen producers and a common trigger for seasonal spring allergies. When they release pollen, it can cause pronounced allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. The oak pollen season is often associated with heightened allergy and asthma symptoms due to elevated pollen levels in the air.

Pollen from olive trees, typically causing hay fever and other respiratory allergies during blooming periods.

Ox-eye daisy is a perennial plant that can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. While its pollen is generally less allergenic than that of many other plants, it can still trigger hay fever symptoms in those who are predisposed.

Stone fruit that can cause allergies ranging from oral allergy syndrome to severe reactions like anaphylaxis.

Penicillium notatum is a common mold that is known for its role in producing penicillin. In indoor environments, it can contribute to allergic reactions, particularly in damp areas. Exposure to this mold may trigger respiratory symptoms and allergies in sensitive individuals, especially those prone to mold-related reactions.

Perennial rye grass (Lolium perenne) is a cool-season grass commonly used for lawns, pastures, and turf due to its rapid growth and resilience. It belongs to the Poaceae family and is a well-known source of seasonal allergens. During its pollination period—typically late spring to early summer—it releases airborne pollen that can trigger allergic reactions such as hay fever and asthma in sensitive individuals. The allergenic potential of perennial rye grass makes it a significant component in inhalant allergy testing panels.

Allergies to seafood such as plaice, anchovy, and Alaska pollock occur when the immune system reacts to specific proteins in these fish. These reactions can cause a range of symptoms and may significantly affect diet and lifestyle. Understanding the triggers, symptoms, and management strategies is important for those living with these allergies.

Plantain weed is a common allergen found in grassy areas, not to be confused with the banana-like fruit. Its small, inconspicuous flowers release pollen that can trigger seasonal allergy symptoms. While it is not as prolific a pollen producer as other weeds, plantain can still cause issues for individuals with specific sensitivities.

Pollen from ribwort plantain, a type of plant that can trigger respiratory allergies, especially in summer.

Russian thistle, also known as tumbleweed, is a plant whose pollen can trigger seasonal allergic reactions. Its pollen is a common allergen, particularly in arid regions. During blooming seasons, the lightweight pollen can travel long distances, affecting many individuals. Symptoms are typical of hay fever and include sneezing, itchy eyes, and a runny nose.

Pollen from rye grass, a significant cause of hay fever and respiratory allergies during its pollen season.

Sheep wool allergy refers to an allergic reaction often caused not by the wool fibers themselves, but by sensitivity to lanolin (wool grease) or other substances present in the wool. These allergens can trigger symptoms when wearing clothing made from sheep’s wool or coming into contact with wool-containing products.

Shrimp allergy is a common type of shellfish allergy, involving an immune reaction to proteins found in shrimp. It is one of the most common food allergies in adults and can cause a range of symptoms from mild to severe, including the risk of anaphylaxis. Shrimp allergy is typically lifelong and can be triggered by eating shrimp or even by inhaling steam from cooking shrimp.

Silkworm pupa allergy is a condition that reflects an immune response triggered by proteins found in silkworm pupae, which are used in various cuisines and as a source of silk. This allergy can cause reactions in some individuals, and recognizing symptoms, avoiding exposure, and knowing how to manage the allergy are important for those affected.

Grass pollen allergies are a measure that reflects sensitivity to various grass species — including sweet vernal, orchard grass, common reed, and bent grass. These allergens can significantly affect individuals prone to allergic reactions, influencing respiratory health, eye irritation, and overall well-being. Understanding these allergies, recognizing symptoms, and applying effective management strategies can help reduce discomfort and improve quality of life during peak pollen seasons.

Timothy grass pollen allergy is a condition that results from an immune response to the pollen of Timothy grass, a widespread grass species commonly found in temperate areas and often used in hay. This allergy is a type of seasonal allergic rhinitis, with symptoms that usually appear during the grass’s pollination period, typically in late spring and early summer.

Grass pollen that triggers many seasonal allergies, causing hay fever and asthma symptoms during its season.

Vegetable widely used in culinary dishes. Tomato allergy can cause oral allergy syndrome and digestive issues.

Total IgE testing measures the overall level of Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies in the blood, which are produced in response to allergens. Elevated levels may indicate increased allergic sensitivity but do not identify specific allergens.

Tuna and salmon are popular fish choices worldwide, known for their taste and health benefits. However, some individuals may experience allergic reactions to these fish, a condition that can range from mild discomfort to severe, life-threatening reactions. Understanding the symptoms, triggers, and management strategies for tuna and salmon allergies is important for those affected.

Tyrophagus putrescentiae, also known as the mold mite, is a species commonly found in stored foods and household dust. These mites thrive in environments with high humidity and can trigger allergic reactions when their waste or body parts become airborne and inhaled, leading to a range of allergy-related symptoms in sensitive individuals.

Walnut intolerance is a condition that reflects difficulty in digesting walnuts, causing gastrointestinal discomfort. Unlike a walnut allergy, which triggers an immune system reaction and can lead to severe, immediate symptoms, walnut intolerance usually results in digestive issues after walnut consumption.

Wasp venom allergy is a condition that occurs when the body has an allergic reaction to the sting of a wasp. This allergy can trigger symptoms ranging from localized pain and swelling to severe anaphylaxis. Unlike bee stings, wasp stings can be more dangerous because wasps can sting multiple times, increasing the risk of a serious allergic response.

White ash (Fraxinus americana) pollen is a key contributor to seasonal pollen counts, especially in the spring when these trees bloom. The airborne pollen from white ash can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, adding to the variety of tree pollens present during allergy season.

White pine trees are conifers with long, slender needles and can contribute to pollen-related allergies. While their pollen is less potent than that of some other trees, it may still trigger symptoms in sensitive individuals, particularly during peak pollen levels in the spring.

Willow tree pollen is a measure of the early spring release of pollen by willow trees. The light, easily dispersed pollen can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, contributing to seasonal allergy symptoms. Exposure may lead to discomfort, even during what is often a pleasant time of year.

Pollen from wormwood plants, known to cause hay fever and exacerbate asthma during its blooming season.