There are several factors that may irritate membranes and airways in allergic individuals thus trigger symptoms. Some of them can also cause uncomfort in non-allergic individuals. The irritants should not be confused with allergens, and can not be investigated by any allergy test.
Cold Air
Allergic individuals can sometimes get allergic reactions just by being exposed to cold air.
Exercise
Exercise can trigger allergic reactions and asthma in already allergic individuals.
Flowers/Strong scents
Flowers and other strong scents can trigger allergic reactions such as shortness of breath, asthma and itching in allergic individuals.
Histamine
Histamine is one of the key substances behind allergic symptoms. Consequently, foods and drinks containing histamine - or releasing histamine - can trigger "allergy-like" reactions, for example itchy rashes, diarrhoea and/or headaches.
Below some examples of food containing or releasing histamine.
| Alcohol |
Fruit juice |
Tree nuts |
| Pineapple |
Fermented foods |
Cheese |
| Aubergine |
Cacao |
Paprika |
| Avocado |
Coconut |
Shellfish |
| Banana |
Sauseges/salami |
Grain/seed |
| Beans (raw) |
Salmon |
Tomato |
| Citrus fruits |
Onion |
Tuna fish |
| Pork |
Corn |
Wine |
| Strawberry |
Mackerel |
Beer |
Infections
Virus infection is one of the most important triggers of allergy and asthma symptoms and it also increases an allergic person's risk of exacerbated symptoms or even hospitalisation.
Perfume
Often referred to as an allergy, perfume sensitisation is more of a fragrance irritation.
Chemical substances in these fragrances can cause irritation or initiate allergic reaction, such as shortness of breath, asthma, itching and skin problems in allergic individuals. These fragrances are found in a variety of different products such as perfume, soap, cosmetics, skin lotions and candles.
Stress
Stress can trigger allergic reactions and asthma in allergic individuals.
Tobacco smoke
Tobacco smoke can cause wheezing, cough, sneezing and even trigger allergic reactions and asthma in allergic individuals.