Allergies are a common phenomenon with different manifestations and causes. Some people suffer from reactions to certain foods, while others react to plant pollen during blooming seasons. To properly diagnose the issue and select effective treatment, it is important to understand the differences between food and seasonal allergies. In this article, Baltimore Chronicle will explore the main signs of both types of allergies, how to recognize them, and provide tips for symptom relief.
Key Concepts: What Is an Allergy
An allergy is an overreaction of the immune system to typically harmless substances.
The immune system starts perceiving pollen, food, or dust as a threat and produces antibodies that trigger allergic symptoms. The most common allergens include:
- tree and grass pollen
- dust mites
- food products (peanuts, milk, eggs)
- animal dander
- mold
While the body’s reaction might be similar, the cause of the allergy plays a crucial role in selecting appropriate treatment.
How Food Allergy Differs from Seasonal Allergy
Food allergies and seasonal allergies differ primarily in their sources and manifestations.
Sources of Allergens
- Food allergy arises after consuming specific foods (such as nuts, shellfish, milk, eggs).
- Seasonal allergy results from contact with plant pollen, most often in spring or summer.
Symptoms
| Sign | Food Allergy | Seasonal Allergy |
|---|---|---|
| Onset Time | After eating | During a specific season |
| Type of Symptoms | Lip swelling, hives, vomiting | Sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy eyes |
| Speed of Symptoms | Within minutes to an hour | Throughout the season |
| Potential Danger | Anaphylactic shock | Rarely life-threatening |
| Associated Conditions | Atopic dermatitis, asthma | Allergic rhinitis, asthma |
Characteristics of Manifestations
Food allergies often cause serious systemic reactions, whereas seasonal allergies primarily affect the mucous membranes of the nose and eyes.
How to Recognize a Food Allergy
A food allergy can occur even after minimal contact with the allergen. Key symptoms include:
- swelling of lips, tongue, or throat
- difficulty breathing
- vomiting or diarrhea
- itching or hives
- drop in blood pressure
Sometimes symptoms develop very quickly and can lead to anaphylaxis, which requires immediate medical attention.
Most Common Food Allergens
- peanuts and tree nuts
- milk
- eggs
- soy
- fish and shellfish
To accurately diagnose a food allergy, special skin tests or blood tests are performed.
How Seasonal Allergy Manifests
Seasonal allergy is usually linked to the flowering period of plants when pollen concentration in the air increases.
Main symptoms:
- frequent sneezing
- nasal congestion or runny nose
- itchy and red eyes
- cough, throat irritation
- fatigue, decreased concentration
Plants That Commonly Trigger Seasonal Allergies
- birch
- ragweed
- timothy grass
- mugwort
- other grass species
People with seasonal allergies are advised to avoid outdoor activities during peak pollen times.
Diagnosis of Both Types of Allergies
Accurate diagnosis is key to successful treatment.
To determine the type of allergy, doctors use:
- skin prick tests
- blood tests for specific IgE antibodies
- food challenge tests (for food allergies)
- thorough analysis of symptoms and seasonality
An allergist will help select the best plan for testing and treatment.
Tips for Prevention and Treatment
Proper allergy management helps prevent flare-ups and reduces symptoms.
For Food Allergies:
- carefully read product labels
- avoid possible cross-contamination
- always carry an epinephrine auto-injector (if at risk of anaphylaxis)
- inform restaurants and cafes about your allergy
For Seasonal Allergies:
- keep windows closed during high pollen periods
- use air purifiers
- rinse your nose with saline solutions
- take antihistamines as recommended by a doctor
- plan outdoor activities after rain when pollen is washed down
General Tips:
- strengthen your immune system
- avoid self-medication
- regularly visit a doctor for check-ups
When to See a Doctor
If allergic symptoms severely worsen your quality of life or if serious food reactions occur, it is crucial to seek medical advice.
Particularly dangerous conditions include:
- difficulty breathing
- swelling of the face or throat
- a sharp drop in blood pressure
- prolonged itching or rash
Timely medical intervention can be life-saving.
Understanding the differences between food and seasonal allergies helps better manage your health and avoid dangerous complications. If you notice any suspicious symptoms, do not delay consulting an allergist. A professional approach and careful attention to your body are key to good health and well-being.
Earlier we wrote about what causes spring allergy and how to avoid it.