What is causing my Allergies?

One in every 5 people may suffer from Allergies which happens when your immune system reacts to an allergen and the result could be very mild or very severe even leading to an anaphylactic shock, so it is important with the help of your doctor to try and identify your allergens and then try to avoid them. Reaction to stress can also cause a rash or exacerbate an allergic reaction such as Urticaria, Eczema, Psoriasis and Asthma.

1. House Dust: house dust mite live on your pillow, mattress and carpets. It feeds on our dead skin and its droppings produces dust which can cause allergies such as eczema, rhinitis and asthma.
2. Colourings  and Preservatives in your food
3. Your jewellery especially nickel can result in a rash around your neck, ear lobes and wrist or hand.
4. Latex glove allergy has become quite common due to its use at home and work, especially if you are working in a clinic or a hospital. It can result in hives, rash, itch and sometimes difficulty in breathing.

Insects:  such as cockroaches have a protein in their droppings which can result in coughing, sneezing and wheezing, some scientists believe they could be the cause of Asthma attacks. Insect bites and stings can sometimes cause very serious reactions, leading to anaphylactic shock.
Pets:  animal dander is a common cause of allergies in humans, avoiding pet hair by vacuuming frequently, one can reduce allergies, reactions can be mild or very serious, investing in a good filtration system can help but expert advice is needed.
Preservatives / Colourings: in your food can cause itch, hives, vomiting, diarrhoea and wheezing especially from eating or drinking food which contains dyes or colourings.
Medications: Lots of people have reactions to medications prescribed or over the counter it can be mild from rash to very serious even life threatening, always consult your GP or call for emergency assistance.
Cosmetics: some ingredients can result in hives and itchy skin after using a product, one in four people can have an allergic reaction to make up, shampoo, body lotion, perfumes, after shave or a hair dye.
Food Allergies: Strawberries, shellfish, eggs, milk, peanuts, soy and wheat are some of the common foods which you could be allergic to. Symptoms could be mild but also potentially life threatening. Always consult your doctor, who may prescribe Epipen for emergencies, you might be given a bracelet or a necklace containing information regarding your allergy.
Fungus / Moulds: can result in itchy red eyes, runny nose, and wheezing. Moulds thrive in damp and moisture laden conditions such as bathrooms, basements and some very old buildings. Good ventilation can help reduce your symptoms. Leaky gut syndrome and Candida can also lead to allergies and intolerances.
Balsam of Peru:  is an ingredient which can be found in cosmetics, perfumes, food and medications. Reaction to it can cause itching, blisters, redness, swelling of lips and tongue as it can be found in flavouring such as vanilla, cinnamon, cough lozenges and haemorrhoid creams.

The Clinic of Complementary and Natural Medicine was established by Dr Bhatti in 1989. Dr Bhatti is a medical doctor and a medical naturopath. He has a Diploma in child health from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons in Ireland and has worked for years in Galway’s main hospitals at UCHG, Merlin Park, St Brigid’s hospital and Portiuncula. At the Clinic of Holistic Health and Natural Medicine Dr Bhatti specialises in weight loss the natural way and in the treatment of painful conditions such as arthritis, back, neck, shoulder and hip pain. He also treats migraine, stress and anxiety by combining natural therapies such as needle free acupuncture, nutrition and mindfulness and CBT techniques which is a new novel approach giving excellent results.

More information on causes and treatment of allergies: https://www.drbhatti.ie/allergies.html

Always consult your G.P. before starting any new regime or self treatment. The contents of the article are for informational purposes only and are not intended to prevent, diagnose or cure any medical conditions. We acknowledge the contribution of all authors and researchers.

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