The Most Common Allergens

Allergens are irritants that cause a response in your immune system. Your immune system is comprised of antibodies responsible for attacking anything the system considers a foreign invader, such as allergens. Allergens can trigger allergy and asthma symptoms that include wheezing, coughing, sneezing, sinus congestion and hives.

Dander

• Pet dander is one of the most common allergens.

  Dander is the dead skin flakes of pets, as indicated by the Mayo Clinic website. When your pet sheds these flakes, you inhale the particles. Dander can cause serious allergies in some people, since dander can remain airborne for several hours. Dander also sticks to your clothes and furniture. Proteins in your pet's skin cells can also be found in saliva and urine, which can cause allergies if you come into contact with these fluids.

Dust Mites

• Dust mites are found within dust around your home. Dust mites can also be found within your bed, furniture and carpet. Dust mites survive by consuming your shed skin cells and live in humid environments. According to the Mayo Clinic, allergies associated with these mites are caused by the proteins found within the fecal waste and dead bodies of other dust mites.

Pollen

• Trees can contribute to allergies.

  Pollen are microscopic grains shed from plants to reproduce. Pollen associated with allergies can be attributed to trees, grasses and weeds. Some examples include elm trees, ragweed and Bermuda grass. When the wind transmits pollen into the air, you inhale the particles, which causes an allergic response.

Mold

• Mold is a type of fungus. Since mold is found both indoors and outdoors, spores can easily be dispersed when mold is disturbed. Outdoors, mold spores are carried by the wind. If mold is present within your home, spores can be released if you touch or brush against the mold.