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Allergens are substances that cause an allergic reaction. They are a specific kind of "antigen." An antigen is anything that simulates a response from your immune system. The immune reponse that best characerizes an allergic reaction is called an "immunoglobulin E (IgE) mediated reaction." Thus, antigens that cause IgE mediated reaction are called allergens.
A nationwide survey found that more than half (54.6%) of all U.S. citizens test positive to one or more allergens.1 In a 2008 survey, over 50% of homes had at least six detectable allergens present.2
This is an electron micorgraph (aka- a super close up photo) of pollen grains. You know, the things that make you miserable in the spring!
Pollen grains are amongst the most notorious of allergens.
 This is a house dust mite. Yes, this is in your house. Right now. Next to you...
Fortunately this photo is also magnified a little bit. Okay maybe a lot. Like 1,000s of times. So don't worry.
Unless you're dust mite allergic. Dust mites are another example of a notorious allergen. (And the worst part is that its actually their feces that you are allergic too!)
Of course there are many other allergens. In fact, theoreticallty, just about anything could be an allergen. But, in reality, there are certain things that tend to be more "allergenic" than others. So, like dust mites and air borne pollens, cat or dog dander can be allergens. In fact any kind of furry animal can release allergens - typically from their saliva, glandular secretions, or urine. Mold can also be an allergen. So can peanuts, fish, fruits, medications (antibiotics for example) and latex. Even the venom from a yellowjacket or wasp sting can be an allergen.
1 Arbes SJ et al. Prevalences of positive skin test responses to 10 common allergens in the U.S. population: Results from the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2005; 116:377-383.
2 Salo PM et al. Exposure to multiple indoor allergens in U.S. homes and its relationship to asthma. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2008; 121: 678-684.e2.
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