What are allergies?

Allergies are an abnormal response of the immune system to a usually harmless substance. They are a condition that result when the immune system mistakenly
recognizes a harmless substance, such as pollen, food, or mold, as an invader. People can be exposed to these by inhaling it, swallowing it, or by touching it. The immune system then produces Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies. These antibodies then
release histamine which causes an allergic reaction.
 

Allergy symptoms:

There are a large variety of allergies, an likewise different symptoms, some being more severe than others. There are different types of allergies, for example food allergies, seasonal allergies, and pet allergies. The symptoms for these allergy types can range from sneezing or a headache to severe skin rashes and even asthma symptoms. 

Ways to prevent/ treat food allergies: 

- Avoid allergenic foods by reading the food label of everything you consume.
- If you are having a serious reaction immediately seek medical help, there is currently no cure, so all that can be done is prevention. 



Ways to prevent/ treat seasonal allergies:

- Reduce your exposure to whatever substance triggers your allergic reactions. 
- Stay indoors on dry, windy days (as these circumstances make it is easier for pollen to move around)
- Check to see when pollen counts will be high, and prepare by closing windows, avoiding outdoor activities, and removing any clothes you've worn outside.




Ways to prevent/ treat pet allergies:

- Avoid keeping pets in your home, or being around them.
- Frequently wash or vacuum any furniture or materials with which your pet has had contact.

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