Allergies are caused by overreaction of the immune system to a foreign substance that is not typically harmful to the body. Some allergies are mild while others can be severe and life-threatening.

Allergies can affect the respiratory system, the skin, the digestive system, or the cardiovascular system. While allergies can occur separately, some of them are commonly paired. Understanding common allergen pairs can help people avoid exposure to these allergens and manage any allergic reactions that may occur.

Allergy Pair #1: Food Allergy & Eczema

Food allergy is the immune system’s abnormal response to a food protein.

While any type of food can cause an allergic reaction, some foods are more commonly associated with allergic reactions, such as peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, fish, milk, eggs, and soy. Eczema, on the other hand, is a skin condition that causes dry, itchy, and red patches on the skin. Some children with eczema also have food allergies.

Studies have shown that up to 40% of children with eczema have food allergies, and food allergens are a common trigger for eczema flare-ups. In this case, managing eczema requires identifying and avoiding food allergens that trigger the eczema.

Allergy Pair #2: Pollen Allergy & Asthma

Pollen allergy is one of the most common allergies in the world. Pollen is a fine powder released by plants during the pollination season.

When pollen is inhaled, it can cause a range of allergic reactions, such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and sore throat. Asthma, on the other hand, is a chronic respiratory condition that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to difficulty breathing.

People with pollen allergy are at a higher risk of developing asthma, especially if they are exposed to high levels of pollen. In fact, up to 80% of people with asthma also have allergic rhinitis, which is a type of pollen allergy that affects the nose and sinuses.

Allergy Pair #3: Dust Mite Allergy & Allergic Rhinitis

Dust allergy is a reaction to tiny bugs called dust mites that live in household dust. Dust mites are found in bedding, furniture, and carpets, and can trigger allergic reactions when they are inhaled or come in contact with the skin.

Allergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever, is a type of allergy that affects the nose and sinuses. Symptoms of allergic rhinitis include sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, and itchy eyes. Dust mites are one of the most common causes of allergic rhinitis, and people with a dust mite allergy are more likely to develop allergic rhinitis.

Allergy Pair #4: Latex Allergy & Food Sensitivity

Latex allergy is a reaction to proteins found in natural rubber latex. Latex is a common material used for gloves, balloons, and medical devices. Symptoms of latex allergy include skin rash, hives, and difficulty breathing.

Some people with latex allergy also experience cross-reactivity with certain foods, such as bananas, avocados, chestnuts, kiwis, and tomatoes. This is because these foods contain proteins that are similar to the ones in latex. This condition is known as latex-fruit syndrome, and people with latex allergy may be advised to avoid these foods as well.

Allergy Pair #5: Insect Sting Allergy & Hives

Some people have an allergic reaction to insect stings, such as those from bees, wasps, and ants. In severe cases, an insect sting allergy can cause anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention.

Hives, also known as urticaria, is a skin condition that causes raised, itchy, and red bumps on the skin. Hives can also occur as a result of an allergic reaction to insect stings. People with insect sting allergy are advised to carry an epinephrine auto-injector, such as an EpiPen, and seek medical attention immediately if they are stung by an insect.

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Allergy Pair #6: Medication Allergy & Anaphylaxis

Medication allergy is a reaction to a medication that can cause a range of symptoms, such as rash, hives, itching, and swelling.

In severe cases, medication allergy can cause anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention. Anaphylaxis can occur with any type of allergy, but it is most commonly associated with food allergy and medication allergy.

People with medication allergy are advised to wear a medical alert bracelet or necklace to alert others of their allergy and carry an epinephrine auto-injector in case of an emergency.

Allergy Pair #7: Mold Allergy & Sinus Infection

Mold allergy is a reaction to spores released by mold that grows on damp surfaces, such as walls, ceilings, and carpets. Symptoms of mold allergy include sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and skin rash.

In some cases, mold allergy can also lead to sinus infection, which is an inflammation of the sinus cavities that can cause headache, facial pain, and congestion. People with mold allergy are advised to keep their homes dry and well-ventilated, and to clean up any mold growth immediately to prevent further allergic reactions and infections.

Allergy Pair #8: Pet Allergy & Asthma

Pet allergy is a reaction to proteins found in the skin cells, saliva, and urine of pets, such as cats and dogs. Symptoms of pet allergy include sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and skin rash.

In some cases, pet allergy can also lead to asthma, especially in people who already have asthma. Pet dander and saliva can trigger asthma symptoms, such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. People with pet allergy are advised to avoid contact with pets as much as possible, and to keep their homes clean and free of pet dander.

Allergy Pair #9: Peanut Allergy & Tree Nut Allergy

Peanut allergy and tree nut allergy are two of the most common food allergies in the world. Peanuts and tree nuts, such as almonds, walnuts, and cashews, are often found in a variety of foods, such as baked goods, candy, and trail mix.

Some people with peanut allergy also have tree nut allergy, and vice versa. This is because peanuts and tree nuts are both part of the legume family, which includes beans and peas.

People with peanut allergy and tree nut allergy are advised to read food labels carefully, avoid eating foods that contain peanuts and tree nuts, and carry an epinephrine auto-injector in case of an emergency.

Allergy Pair #10: Sun Allergy & Photoallergic Contact Dermatitis

Sun allergy is a reaction to the ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun that can cause a range of symptoms, such as rash, hives, and blisters.

Photoallergic contact dermatitis, on the other hand, is a skin reaction that occurs when a chemical in a skincare product or medication combines with UV rays to cause an allergic rash. Some people who have sun allergy may also have photoallergic contact dermatitis, and vice versa.

People with sun allergy and photoallergic contact dermatitis are advised to use broad-spectrum sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and avoid exposure to the sun during peak hours.