Allergies

Overall, allergic diseases are among the major causes of illness and disability in the United States, affecting as many as 40 to 50 million Americans. An allergy is a specific reaction of the body’s immune system to a normally harmless substance, one that does not bother most people. People who have allergies often are sensitive to more than one substance.

There are many types of allergies. The most common are seasonal allergies that are the result of certain trees, plants, or pollens in the air at certain times of the year. Other people experience allergies to particular foods or animals. Still others experience allergies to house dust mites, mold spores, medicines, even latex rubber.

Why are some people allergic?

Scientists think that some people inherit a tendency to be allergic from one or both parents. This means they are more likely to have allergies. However, they didn't likely inherit an allergy to any specific allergen. Children are more likely to develop allergies if one or both parents have allergies. In addition, exposure to allergens at times when the body’s defenses are lowered or weakened, such as after a viral infection or during pregnancy, seems to contribute to developing allergies.

Symptoms of allergies are classified by degree of severity, including mild, moderate, and severe allergic reactions. Most people experience only mild symptoms. They may include watery eyes, itchy skin, a runny nose, coughing, and hives. This type of allergy can be controlled by using an antihistamine. There are several over the counter antihistamines, as well as others you can only get with a prescription. You may also want to consider getting an allergy shot.

For other sufferers, the allergic reaction is moderate. In these cases, the reaction spreads to other parts of the body. They may experience difficulty breathing. This may be the reaction to various molds. Antihistemines, steroids, and immunotherapy can all held remedy the effects.

While very rare, severe allergic reactions do exist. Generally these are the result of food allergies. Peanuts, milk, and eggs are the most common. Symptoms include swelling of the face, abdominal pain, cramps, hives, and angioedema which are hives inside the throat. Immediate medical attention is generally required for symptoms of a severe allergic reaction. Often a shot can help offset the reaction.

Some people also have severe allergic reactions to insects, especially those with stingers. They may require medical attention to receive a shot of epinephrine.

While there is no cure for allergies, as we've seen, they can be treated.