Similar to allergic rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis occurs when the eyes react to allergens with symptoms of reddening, itching and swelling. Symptoms of atopic dermatitis , also called eczema , often result from allergen exposure to the skin. Dermatitis symptoms include itching, reddening, and flaking or peeling of the skin. Urticaria , or hives , another allergic skin reaction, is characterized by itchy red bumps that can occur in clumps and be either large or small. Hives are often triggered by infection, certain foods or medications.
Foods commonly associated with hives include nuts, tomatoes, shellfish and berries.
Medications include penicillin, sulfa, anti-seizure medications, phenobarbital and aspirin. Asthma is a chronic lung disease that affects more than 17 million Americans and is characterized by coughing, chest tightness, shortness of breath and wheezing. When an individual experiences asthma symptoms, the inflamed airways become constricted so it becomes more difficult to breathe through the narrowed air passages. For those with allergies, inhaling allergens may produce increased inflammation of the airway lining and further narrowing of the air passages. Asthma may also occur as a result of other stimuli, such as respiratory tract infections or exposure to irritants.