Allergies are
complex and can’t be attributed to a single source. The NHS website
defines the causes of allergies by stating: ‘there are thousands of allergens
that can trigger allergies,’ and these can be combated in different ways.
Allergies are notoriously difficult to define and can also be complex to treat.

Latex allergies

Many of those who
work in hospitals, or prepare food, suffer from latex allergies as a result of
wearing gloves. This is a physical reaction to the sap of the rubber tree
that’s used in the production of latex. One way around this problem is to wear vinyl gloves from Brosch
Direct, and you’ll soon see that any rashes caused by latex will
disappear. It’s not just latex gloves that can cause a physical reaction, all
sorts of rubber based products including helium balloons can also cause a
problem.

What is an allergy?

An allergy is when the body over produces
the antibody that’s used to fight normal infections and viruses, when it comes
into contact with grasses, pollens and a myriad of other triggers. Essentially
your immune system is confused and immunoglobulin is created unnecessarily.
This results in the production of histamine, which causes the runny noses, the
tightening of the muscles and the itchiness that’s associated with so many
allergies. 

Carpets harbour dust mites

Asthma sufferers should steer clear
of dirty carpets, or, if possible carpets all together. Carpets harbour dust
mites. According to the charity Asthma
UK, ‘90% of people with asthma say dust triggers their asthma. This is
actually a reaction to the droppings of dust mites… and can be found in
carpets, bedding, soft furnishings and toys’. The organisation also advises
that it’s not just mites that can act as an allergy trigger. Some cleaning
products can also set off an asthma attack.

Grass can cause hay fever

Those who suffer from allergies to
carpets may also find that life is no easier outdoors. Grass and pollens can
cause hay fever, this condition is on the increase and causes months of red
eyes, runny noses and breathing difficulties to those who are diagnosed with
this allergy.

Recent studies show that those who
grow up in a smoker’s household, have been exposed to dust mites or have over
used antibiotics, may be more at risk than others. GP surgeries often see a spike in visits during the
summer and according to The
Guardian: ‘In June this year  11,873 people in England and Wales
visited their doctor because of hay fever-type symptoms.’ The main age groups
that are affected by this allergen are 5 to 14 years old, though people of all
ages can develop the condition.

Food can also act as an allergy
trigger

Peanut allergies affect 1.4% of children.
Anyone who suffers from an allergy to peanuts can go into anaphylactic shock,
as can those who are allergic to shellfish and any other types of food. The
charity Allergy
UK believes that those who suffer from these allergies can face
life-threatening symptoms, so their problems should always be taken seriously.
It’s important that those suffering from food allergies wear a ‘Medic Alert’
bracelet at all times.