Allergy
An allergy is an immune system reaction to a substance that is normally harmless to most people. These substances, known as allergens, can include pollen, dust mites, pet dander, certain foods, insect stings, medications, or materials like latex. When someone with an allergy is exposed to an allergen, their immune system mistakenly identifies it as a threat and releases chemicals such as histamine, leading to symptoms that can range from mild to severe.
Common allergic reactions include sneezing, itching, runny nose, hives, rashes, swelling, and watery eyes. In some cases, exposure to allergens can trigger more serious conditions like asthma or lead to anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction that requires immediate medical attention. Food allergies, in particular, can affect the digestive system, skin, or respiratory tract and may appear within minutes to hours after eating the offending item.
Diagnosis is typically made through medical history, skin tests, or blood tests. While there is no cure for allergies, symptoms can often be managed with avoidance strategies, antihistamines, decongestants, or immunotherapy such as allergy shots. Understanding triggers and how to respond to allergic reactions is essential for individuals with allergies, especially in severe cases. As allergies continue to rise worldwide, research into their causes, treatments, and prevention remains an important area of medical science.