An allergy is a condition when the immune system over-reacts to a substance that comes in contact with the skin, or by inhalation or ingestion. These substances are referred to as allergens, and can be found in any facet of our environment. The most common allergens include pollen, animal dander, ragweed, dust mites, mold, and various chemical compounds found in soaps and cleaning products. Even clothes and any foods can be allergens.

When a person has an allergy attack, it is literally the body's way of reacting in self-defense. Allergies can be exhibited in anyone of any age-regardless of whether or not a person has been previously exposed to the substance. In fact, babies frequently are allergic to laundry detergent, dust, and possibly fruits, vegetables, or grains. It is when repeated reactions to a particular substance occur that one is considered having an allergy.

Allergy symptoms include:
-Wheezing
-Watery, itchy eyes
-Pain or gritty sensation in the eyes
-Blurry vision
-Eye or nasal discharge
-Hives and itchy skin
-Upset stomach
-Nausea or vomiting
-Sneezing
-Coughing
-Swelling around the effected area
-Dizziness or unconsciousness
-Profuse sweating
-Skin rashes
-Headaches

People with allergies are usually able to live normally with little change of lifestyle.
While some allergy cases are occasional and mild, others can be severe and cause death from the slightest attack (known as anaphylactic shock). For a person having a first-time allergy attack, a thorough consideration of everything in his or her environment will need to be noted and specific allergy tests might be run to determine the offending allergen and extent of the allergy. Treatments include oral, spray, or cream medication and avoiding or limiting the exposure of known allergens.

Learn more about this author, Natasha L. Kohlhoff Polak.
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