Hypersensitivity

 

An allergy is a reaction by your immune system to something that does not bother most other people. People who have allergies often are sensitive to more than one thing.

 

 

Substances that often cause reactions are:

1. Pollen

2. Dust mites

3. Mold spores

4. Pet dander

5. Food

6. Insect stings

7. Medicines

In most allergic reactions, however, it is responding to a false alarm. Genes and the environment probably both play a role.

 

 

Allergies can cause a variety of symptoms such as:

1. Runny nose

2. Sneezing

3. Itching

4. Rashes

5. Swelling

6. Asthma

Allergies can range from minor to severe. Anaphylaxis is a severe reaction that can be life-threatening.

 

 

Doctors use skin and blood tests to diagnose allergies.

 

 

Treatments include:

1. Medicines

2. Allergy shots

3. Avoid triggers