There are four different types of allergic reactions: anaphylactic reactions, cytotoxic reactions, immunocomplex reactions, and cell-mediated reactions.
 
– Type I Allergic Reactions
In the medical field, type I allergic reactions are known as anaphylactic reactions. This type of reaction is caused by proteins in the body called IgE antibodies. When your immune system is compromised by hypersensitivity to things such as pollen and certain foods, your body releases histamines and chemicals that cause swelling. Type I reactions can range in severity from asthma to allergic rhinitis and anaphylactic shock.
 
– Type II Allergic Reactions
Type II reactions are otherwise referred to as cytotoxic allergic reactions, present themselves as immune thrombocytopenia, autoimmune hemolytic anemia, and autoimmune neutropenia. When IgG and IgM antibodies are produced in response to allergens, cells in the immune system can become damaged.
 
– Type III Allergic Reactions
Immunocomplex allergic reactions commonly known in the medical community as type III allergic reactions are mediated by IgM and IgG antibodies. These reactions are much rarer than type I and include conditions such as lupus, Arthus reaction, and serum sickness.
 
– Cell-mediated Allergic Reactions
The fourth and final type of allergic reaction is called a cell-mediated allergic reaction. Unlike the other types, you will experience this reaction after 24-72 hours of exposure. Cell-mediated allergic reactions include fungal infections, tuberculosis, and skin sensitivities to certain types of metals.

A severe allergic reaction can be incredibly dangerous and lead to death without the proper treatment. There are many noticeable signs of severe allergic reactions including:
 
– Difficulty breathing
– Throat tightness
– Coughing
– Wheezing
– Hives
– Fainting
– Trouble swallowing
– Panic
– Nausea
– Skin rashes
– Hoarseness
– Trouble speaking
– Low blood pressure
– Seizures
– Weak pulse
– Lightheadedness
– Shortness of breath
– Swelling of the lips, throat, and mouth
 
If you, your child, or anyone around you is suffering from symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, call an ambulance immediately.

The main cause of allergic reactions is hypersensitivity to certain allergens. Common allergens include:
 
– Pollen
– Animal dander
– Dust mites
– Mold
–  Animals
– Peanuts
– Milk
– Eggs
– Fruits and vegetables
– Wheat
– Tree nuts
– Shellfish
– Bees and wasps
– Medicines such as penicillin
– Latex
– Metal
 
If you suspect you may have an allergy, you can book an allergy test with Avant Medical Group or your local primary care physician. Trained allergy specialists can pinpoint the cause of your allergy reactions with blood testing and skin patch tests so that you can avoid certain triggers.

If a severe allergic reaction goes untreated, you may experience anaphylactic shock. This dramatic drop in blood pressure and rapidly closing airways can lead to seizures and death. Fortunately, anaphylaxis can be treated with oxygen, intravenous antihistamines, intravenous cortisone, epinephrine, and beta-agonists. These allergy treatments are life-saving.
 
For further information on allergy treatment and assessment, please feel free to reach out to our friendly team at Avant Medical Group. We would be more than happy to answer any questions about our primary care services. Schedule an appointment with one of our allergy treatment specialists by giving us a call or requesting an appointment online. Our team will get back to you as soon as possible for all of your allergy service needs! We are conveniently located at 233 Broadway Suite 2750 New York, NY 10279. We serve patients from New York NY, Brooklyn NY, Manhattan NY, Harlem NY, and Greenwich Village NY.