Hypersensitivity

DESCRIPTION

Definition
 
An allergy is a reaction by your immune system to something that does not bother most other people. People who have allergies often are sensitive to more than one thing.
 
Causes and Risk Factors
 
Substances that often cause reactions are:
1. Pollen
2. Dust mites
3. Mold spores
4. Pet dander
5. Food
6. Insect stings
7. Medicines
In most allergic reactions, however, it is responding to a false alarm. Genes and the environment probably both play a role.
 
Signs and Symptoms
 
Allergies can cause a variety of symptoms such as:
1. Runny nose
2. Sneezing
3. Itching
4. Rashes
5. Swelling
6. Asthma
Allergies can range from minor to severe. Anaphylaxis is a severe reaction that can be life-threatening.
 
Investigations
 
Doctors use skin and blood tests to diagnose allergies.
 
Treatment
 
Treatments include:
1. Medicines
2. Allergy shots
3. Avoid triggers
 
NIH: National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases

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