Allergies

Allergies are the immune system's specific reaction to a normally harmless substance such as pollens, certain foods, or medicines. There are two main types of allergies: seasonal and perennial. Seasonal allergies occur at specific times of the year, while perennial allergies can happen year-round. It is unknown why one person will develop allergies and another will not, although it is believed that the tendency to be allergic may be inherited. In many cases, allergies can be treated with medication, reducing contact with specific allergens, or shots.

 

What Are Allergies?

More than 50 million Americans suffer from allergic diseases. One of the most common forms of allergies is an allergic reaction to something in the air. Health experts estimate that 35 million Americans suffer from upper respiratory tract symptoms that are allergic reactions to airborne allergens (substances that can cause an allergic reaction).
 
This article discusses airborne allergies. Additional eMedTV articles focus on other types of allergies, such as allergies to latex or certain foods. Click Food Allergy and Latex Allergy for more information on these topics.
 

Definition of an Allergy

Allergies occur when the body's immune system reacts to a normally harmless substance -- one that does not bother most people. People who have allergies are often sensitive to more than one substance. Examples of allergens that cause allergic reactions include:
 
  • Pollens
  • House dust mites
  • Mold spores
  • Food
  • Latex rubber
  • Insect venom
  • Medicines.
     
(Allergies Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD