What is an allergy?

An allergy is an adverse reaction to a protein in our environment, such as those found on pets, and in pollen or nuts. These proteins are called allergens and are normally harmless.

In people with an allergy, the body reacts to a specific allergen by releasing histamine from mast cells in the skin, lungs, nose or intestine. This causes inflammation and swelling. Symptoms can include itchy skin, tissue swelling and wheezing. In severe cases it can lead to full-blown anaphylaxis or even death.

Common allergic diseases include hay fever, asthma, eczema and urticaria.

Some people get allergic conjunctivitis, while others react adversely to medication, insect stings or latex.

Food allergy and intolerance to food additives are relatively uncommon causes of allergic reactions

Allergens to be aware of:

• Grass and tree pollens
• Dust mites (living in and feeding on house dust)
• Food (cow's milk, hen eggs, wheat, soya, seafood, fruit and nuts)
• Fungal or mould spores (in the bathroom and other damp areas)
• Medication (penicillin, aspirin, anaesthetics)
• Nickel, rubber, preservatives and hair dyes (skin contact allergens)
• Pet skin flakes or dander (cat, dog, horse or hamster)
• Wasp and bee stings
  
  

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