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01 Nov 2021 | 04:56 PM (IST)

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Hypersensitivity

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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