What is Allergy ?
The bodies defense mechanism works over time to react against foreign particles which may pose danger to normal functioning of the human system. These foreign particles are known as Allergens.
People who are known to be allergic, respond to harmless allergens in an exaggerated manner thus resulting in irritations and discomfort to the body.
There are several types of allergies like: Hay Fever, Asthma, Eczema, Hives, Contact Dermatitis (Skin Reactions), Conjunctivitis (Red eye), Sinusitis, Anaphylaxis (Life-Threatening Reaction).
Causes of Allergy
Anything can act as an allergen if your system is sensitive to it, but the most common allergens are pollen, dust, dust mites, mold, mildew, cat and dog dander, foods (such as peanuts, milk and shellfish), drugs (such as penicillin and anesthetics) and certain chemicals.
Symptoms of Allergy
A cold that never seems to go away. A running nose, congestion, or coughing that occurs pretty much constantly and lasts for more than 10 days can point to allergies.
Symptoms have a pattern. Pollen allergies appear at the same time every year. Pet allergies happen when you are around a certain animal, or, in many cases, just enter a building where the animal lives. Dust allergies crop up when you clean house, shake out rugs or enter a very dusty building.
Wheezing or frequent coughing could indicate a serious allergy or asthma.
Coughing up mucus that is grey, yellow, green, brown, or bloody, or that is shaped like small strings or plugs.