An allergy is characterized by an overreaction of the human immune system to a foreign protein substance "allergen" that is eaten, breathed into the lungs, injected or touched.
The most common allergies are caused by everyday, airborne particles such as pollens or dust mites.
It is an issue of inheritance, although only the inclination for an allergic reaction is inherited.
The way, whether and how an allergy will reveal itself is an individual matter.
There are two ways to test for allergies: Skin testing - placing a small amount of an allergen under the skin and blood testing for specific allergies.
Both detect the substances to which a person is allergic, as well as the degree of sensitivity, which helps determine the initial treatment dose.
Allergic reactions can also be caused by insect bites, jewelry, cosmetics and almost any substance that contacts the body.
Some people have allergic reactions to hot or cold temperatures, sunlight, or other physical stimuli, such as rubbing or strongly stroking the skin.
General symptoms that are attributed to an allergy attack include, sneezing, wheezing, nasal irritation, cough, runny and/or stuffy nose, heartburn, bloating, diarrhea.
rashes and even death.
The most common food allergies are peanuts, tree nuts, fish, and shellfish, milk, eggs, soy products, and wheat.
Symptoms include a red irritated skin reaction similar to poison oak or poison ivy rash.
Additional symptoms include facial flushing, rhinitis, vomiting, diarrhea, wheezing and anaphylaxis.
Prompt recognition of anaphylaxis is essential as delayed treatment has been associated with fatality.
Treatment consists of the removal of some food or foods, along with medical treatment, including the timely self administration of epinephrine in the event of a serious reaction.
Treatment may also include medications and allergy shots.