Allergy Symptoms

at Allergy & ENT Associates of Middle TN

Allergy symptoms differ depending on the type of allergy. Symptoms typically involve the airways, sinuses, nasal passages, and skin and may range from mild to severe.



At Allergy & ENT Associates, we help patients identify the cause of allergy symptoms and recommend testing and treatment options based on individual needs.

Common Allergy Symptoms

Allergies can cause symptoms that affect daily comfort and breathing.


Symptoms may include:


  • Nasal congestion


  • Sneezing


  • Runny nose


  • Itchy eyes and throat


  • Watery eyes


  • Postnasal drip


  • Skin rash or hives


  • Wheezing or coughing


  • Abdominal symptoms (in food allergies)


Some allergic reactions can be severe and require immediate medical attention.

Symptoms of Anaphylaxis

Some patients may develop anaphylaxis, a potentially fatal allergic reaction that causes swelling in the throat and difficulty breathing.


Symptoms can develop within seconds of exposure and may include:


  • Abdominal pain


  • Dizziness


  • Nausea


  • Rapid pulse


  • Heart palpitations



  • Inflammation of the face and eyes


  • Mental confusion


Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency. Without prompt treatment, patients can go into shock or cardiac arrest.

Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies

Seasonal allergies are among the most common. Often referred to as hay fever, they are caused by molds or pollen from flowering plants, grasses, and trees. Because certain plants bloom at different times of year and mold growth varies by weather conditions, seasonal allergies may only occur during specific seasons.


Common seasonal allergy symptoms include:


  • Nasal congestion


  • Sneezing


  • Runny nose


  • Itchy eyes and throat


  • Watery eyes


  • Postnasal drip

Symptoms of Skin Allergies

Skin allergies often cause visible symptoms that are hard to miss. These may include:


  • Redness


  • Swelling


  • Itchiness


  • Hives


  • Rash


  • Peeling or flaking skin


Possible sources of skin allergies include:



  • Beauty products and cosmetics


  • Perfumes


  • Topical ointments


  • Household solvents


  • Latex


  • Insect stings


  • Certain medications


  • Poisonous plants (such as poison ivy, oak, and sumac)

Symptoms of Food Allergies

An estimated 50 million Americans suffer from food allergies. Food allergies are most common in young children but can affect people of all ages. Symptoms may range from mild to severe and can include:


  • Hives


  • Stomach cramps


  • Vomiting


  • Wheezing


  • Cough


  • Hoarseness


  • Swelling of the tongue


  • Difficulty breathing


  • Weak pulse


  • Pale skin


  • Dizziness


Any food can trigger a reaction, but most food allergies are caused by:


  • Peanuts


  • Shellfish


  • Milk


  • Eggs


  • Tree nuts


  • Fish


  • Wheat


  • Soy

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What are the most common allergy symptoms?

    Common symptoms include congestion, sneezing, runny nose, itchy or watery eyes, postnasal drip, and skin reactions such as hives or rash.

  • What symptoms indicate an allergic emergency?

    Throat swelling, difficulty breathing, dizziness, weak pulse, confusion, and rapid worsening symptoms may indicate anaphylaxis and require emergency care.

  • How can I determine what is causing my allergy symptoms?

    Allergy testing (skin or blood testing) can help identify specific allergens and guide the best treatment plan.

Call Allergy & ENT Associates at (615) 889-8802 to learn more or schedule an appointment.