An allergy is a reaction the body has to a particular food or substance.
Allergies are very common. They’re particularly common in children. Adults can develop allergies to things they weren’t previously allergic to.
Having an allergy can be a nuisance and affect your everyday activities, but most allergic reactions are mild and can be largely kept under control.
Severe reactions can occasionally occur, but these are uncommon.
The immune system overreacts to the allergen by producing Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies. These antibodies travel to cells that release histamine and other chemicals, causing an allergic reaction.
If you have an allergy, your immune system mistakes an otherwise harmless substance as an invader. This substance is called an allergen.
common allergens include:
mould – small particles from air
household chemicals – some detergents and hair dyes
dust mites
food – particularly nuts, fruit, shellfish, eggs and cows’ milk
insect bites and stings
animal dander (skin or hair)
latex
medication – aspirin and certain antibiotics
Symptoms of an allergic reaction
Allergic reactions usually happen quickly within a few minutes of exposure to an allergen.
They can cause:
sneezing
a runny or blocked nose
red, itchy, watery eyes
wheezing and coughing
a red, itchy rash
worsening of asthma or eczema symptoms
Treatment
In many cases, the most effective way of managing an allergy is to avoid the allergen that causes the reaction whenever possible.
For example, if you have a food allergy, you should check a food’s ingredients list for allergens before eating it.
Medications for mild allergies are available from pharmacies without a prescription.
Allergy Diagnosis
An allergist has advanced training and experience to properly diagnose your condition and prescribe an allergy treatment and management plan to help you feel better and live better.