Allergies

An allergy is a reaction which is exaggerated in our immune system in response to a foreign substance, these are harmless and would not usually trigger a response in non-allergic people. The substances that produce allergy are known as allergens, and these could be dust mites, mold, danders, foods or pollen.

The Cause of Allergies

Allergies can develop at any age, and can even develop in the womb. Many experience symptoms for the first time in adulthood. The most important factor in the development of allergies is heredity, where allergic reactions tend to cluster within families. If neither of your parents is allergic then there is only around a 15% chance that you will be, whereas this will rise to 30% if one parent is allergic, or 60%+ if both parents are.

However, even if your parents are allergic you may never experience the symptoms or even be allergic to the same substances. Some allergies can also be more severe than others. Your environment will also play a role, where repetitive exposure to the allergen early in life means the more likely you are to develop an allergy.

Allergic Symptoms

There are many symptoms of allergy including the eyes, the nose, lungs, skin and the stomach. These all come from an exaggerated immune system response.

Allergic Rhinitis: This is otherwise known as hay fever and produces symptoms such as itchy eyes, a runny nose and itchy throat as a reaction against pollen.

Asthma: This is a breathing problem from the inflammation of air passages and leads to shortness of breath, wheezing and coughing.

Allergic Eyes: Otherwise known as conjunctivitis this can cause itchy eyes and redness.

Allergic Eczema: A rash causing itchiness, dry skin and redness.

Hives: These are skin reactions that appear as itchy swelling.

Allergic shock: This is also known as anaphylaxis and can be life-threatening causing hives, low blood pressure, wheezing, nasal congestion and throat swelling.