Common Allergens or Causes of Allergies

Allergens are substances that trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. These allergens can be found in foods, drinks, plants, animals, and other everyday items. If you’re reading this to determine the cause of your allergy, carefully consider recent foods you’ve eaten or things you’ve been exposed to before your allergic reaction occurred. For example, if you had seafood at a restaurant before your symptoms appeared, it might be the cause. Similarly, if your allergy started after bringing a cat into your home, the pet might be the trigger.

Keep in mind that many other foods and substances not listed here could also cause allergies. If your symptoms persist and you want to identify the specific triggers, consult an allergist, immunologist, or other healthcare provider for guidance.

Foods That Commonly Cause Allergies

Note: Some allergies may be triggered by specific ingredients rather than the food itself. For instance, if fish sauce is used in a dish like sinigang, it could be the allergen.

  1. Fish and seafood. This includes fish sauce (patis), shrimp, mussels, crabs, bagoong, and other seafood.
  2. Dairy products. Milk and milk-based products are common allergens.
  3. Eggs. Includes fresh eggs as well as balut or penoy.
  4. Nuts. Common triggers include peanuts, cashews, almonds, and other tree nuts.
  5. Eggplant. While less common, some individuals may react to eggplant.
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Medications That Commonly Cause Allergies

Note: Always inform your doctor if you’ve previously experienced allergic reactions to any medication.

  1. Antibiotics. Examples include penicillin, amoxicillin, and related drugs.
  2. Sulfonamides. Includes medications like hydrochlorothiazide, furosemide, celecoxib, and acetazolamide.
  3. Salicylates. Found in medications like aspirin.

Animals and Plants That Commonly Cause Allergies

Note: You don’t need to physically touch animals or plants to experience allergic reactions. Simply inhaling particles, such as fur or pollen, may be enough to trigger symptoms.

  1. Animal fur. Common sources include cats, dogs, and horses.
  2. Cockroaches and dust mites. These pests can trigger allergies in sensitive individuals.
  3. Plants and flowers. Includes certain types of trees, grasses, flower pollen, and molds.

Items That Commonly Cause Allergies

Note: Allergic reactions caused by these items often appear on the skin where contact occurred. For example, if you’re allergic to silver and wear a necklace, you might develop an allergy on your neck.

  1. Rubber latex. Found in gloves, condoms, and similar products.
  2. Metals. Includes silver, copper, and other metals used in jewelry and accessories.

Allergies can be triggered by a wide range of substances, from foods and medications to everyday items and environmental factors. Identifying the cause is crucial for managing symptoms and avoiding exposure. If you suspect you’re allergic to a substance, consult a healthcare professional for proper testing and advice.