1. Sun allergies can be a serious health hazard

For some people, the sun can be more than just an annoyance - it can be a serious health hazard. Sun allergies, also known as photosensitivity, can cause an itchy rash, headache, nausea, and in more severe cases, bleeding under the skin. These reactions can be triggered by even a small amount of exposure to the sun, making it important for those with sun allergies to take extra precautions when outdoors.

Also → Food Allergies: Know the Risks

2. Groom your pet to reduce allergies

It's not just pet hair that can cause allergies; the particles trapped in the hair, such as dead skin, saliva, and urine, are the real culprits. These particles can become airborne and cause allergic reactions in people who are sensitive to them. To reduce the risk of an allergic reaction, it's important to regularly groom and bathe your pet, as this will help to reduce the amount of allergens in the air.

Also → Know the signs of anaphylaxis and get help fast

3. Penicillin allergies can be deadly

Penicillin allergies are one of the most common causes of fatal anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction that can cause difficulty breathing, swelling of the throat, and a drop in blood pressure. Anaphylaxis can be life-threatening if not treated immediately, and penicillin allergies are the most common cause of anaphylaxis-related deaths. Symptoms of a penicillin allergy can include hives, itching, swelling, and difficulty breathing, and can range from mild to severe. It is important to seek medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms after taking penicillin.

Also → Oral allergy syndrome caused by strawberries

4. Louisville: Worst Place for Allergies - AAFA

Living with allergies can be especially difficult in Louisville, Kentucky, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. In 2014, the city was ranked as the most challenging place to live with allergies, due to its high pollen count, high prevalence of asthma, and high rate of allergy medication use. Louisville residents must take extra precautions to protect themselves from the allergens in the air, such as wearing a face mask and avoiding outdoor activities during peak pollen times.

Also → Asthma: A Serious Health Concern in the United States

5. Protect your children from allergies with this guide

If you have allergies, there's a good chance your children will too. In fact, if one parent has allergies, their child has a 1 in 3 chance of having them, and if both parents have allergies, the likelihood increases to 7 in 10. Allergies are known to have a genetic component, so it's important to be aware of your family's history of allergies and to take the necessary precautions to protect your children.

6. 55% Suffer from Manage Them Now!

A staggering 55% of Americans suffer from allergies, with many testing positive to one or more allergens. Allergies can range from mild to severe, and can be triggered by a variety of substances, including pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and certain foods. Symptoms can include sneezing, coughing, itchy eyes, and a runny nose. In some cases, allergies can even lead to anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction that requires immediate medical attention. Fortunately, there are a variety of treatments available to help manage allergies, including medications, immunotherapy, and lifestyle changes.

7. A Viennese pediatrician's groundbreaking discovery

In 1906, a Viennese pediatrician named Clemens von Pirquet coined the term "allergy" from the Ancient Greek words 'allos' (meaning "other") and 'eron' (meaning "work"). This groundbreaking discovery revolutionized the way we think about and treat allergies today, providing us with a better understanding of the body's reaction to foreign substances.

8. 1 in 5 Americans Suffering from Allergies or Asthma

It's estimated that an astonishing 1 in 5 Americans suffer from allergies or asthma, making it one of the most common chronic health conditions in the country. In fact, the number of people affected by allergies and asthma is more than double the number of people with diabetes, with over 60 million people suffering from allergies or asthma compared to 26 million with diabetes.

9. The Top Doctor Visits in 2003

In 2003, allergies were a major cause of doctor visits, with over 17 million people seeking medical attention due to their symptoms. Of those, a staggering half were due to seasonal allergies, such as hay fever, which can cause sneezing, itchy eyes, and a runny nose. These allergies can be triggered by pollen, dust, and other airborne allergens, and can be particularly troublesome during the spring and summer months.

10. What causes them, and how to avoid them

Allergies can be caused by a variety of factors, both within and outside of our control. Host factors, such as sex, race, and heredity, can increase the risk of developing allergies, while environmental factors, such as exposure to infectious diseases, pollution, and dietary changes, can also play a role. Knowing the risk factors associated with allergies can help us to better understand and manage our own health, as well as that of our families.