What is allergy?
Allergy is a genetic condition causing the body to respond to harmless substances in the environment as though they were dangerous invaders. This response produces symptoms that may be mild to life-threatening in susceptible people. The most common symptoms of allergy are allergic rhinitis, asthma and eczema.
In allergic rhinitis, the lining of the nose becomes irritated, causing the sufferer to sneeze and the nose to become stuffed-up or to run. Eyes may itch or turn watery. Sometimes the ears feel blocked up. Allergic rhinitis occurs most frequently during the spring, summer or fall when trees, grasses and weeds produce pollen.
Asthma is a condition which affects breathing and the lungs. The patient wheezes, coughs and is short of breath.
Eczema is an inflammation of the skin. It can take the form of red patches, crusts and scales. The affected area generally itches. The condition generally occurs from eating certain foods.