About Allergy :
An allergy is a response that the body exhibits to a particular type of food or substance. Allergy is very common. It is thought to affect one in four people in the UK at some point in their lives.
Allergy is especially common in children.
Some allergies go away as the child gets older, although many allergies last a lifetime. Adults may develop allergies to substances they were not previously sensitive to.
Having a rash can be painful and affect your daily activities, but most allergic reactions are mild and can be kept under control. Severe reactions can sometimes occur, but are rare.
General Allergy :
Substances that cause an allergic reaction are called allergens. Common allergens include:
- Grass and tree flowers – Allergy to them is called Hay Fever (Allergic Rhinitis).
- Dust Mites
- Animal dander (small pieces of skin or hair)
- Food – especially nuts, fruits, shellfish, eggs and cow’s milk
- Insect bites and stings
- Medicines – including ibuprofen, aspirin, and certain types of antibiotics
- Latex – used to make some gloves and condoms
- Mold – This can leave small particles in the air that you can inhale.
- Household chemicals – including detergents and hair dyes
- Most of these allergens are usually harmless to people who are not allergic to them.
Symptoms of Allergic Reaction :
An allergic reaction usually occurs rapidly within minutes of exposure to the allergen.
These reasons can be:
- sneeze
- Cold or stuffy nose
- Red, itchy, watery eyes
- Wheezing and coughing in breathing
- Red, itchy rash
- Worsening of Asthma or Eczema symptoms
Most allergic reactions are mild, but sometimes a severe reaction called anaphylaxis or anaphylactic shock can occur. This is a medical emergency and requires immediate treatment.
Getting Help for Allergies :
If your pharmacist thinks you may have a mild allergy, they can offer advice and treatment to help control the condition.