Allergies
Definition:
An allergy is an exaggerated immune response or reaction to substances that are generally not harmful.
See also:
hay fever
allergy to mold, dander, dust
food allergies
drug allergies
allergy testing
allergic reactions
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
Allergy is caused by an oversensitive immune system, which leads to a misdirected immune response. The immune system normally protects the body against harmful substances, such as bacteria and viruses. In contrast, an allergic reaction is when the immune system reacts to substances (allergens) that are generally harmless and in most people do not cause an immune response.
In a person with allergies, the first exposure to the allergen triggers the immune system to recognize the substance. Any exposure after that will usually result in symptoms.
When an allergen enters the body of a person with a sensitized immune system, histamine and other chemicals are released by certain cells. This causes itching, swelling, mucus production, muscle spasms, hives, rashes, and other symptoms.
Symptoms vary in severity from person to person. Most people have symptoms that cause discomfort without being life-threatening. A few people have life-threatening reactions (called anaphylaxis).
The part of the body contacted by the allergen will, in part, affect the symptoms. For example, allergens that are inhaled often cause nasal congestion, itchy nose and throat, mucus production, cough, or wheezing. A food allergen can cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, cramping, diarrhea, or a severe, life-threatening reaction. Allergies to plants often cause skin rash. Drug allergies usually involve the whole body.
Some disorders may be associated with allergies. These include eczema and asthma, among others.
Common allergens include those that contact the skin, breathing passages, or the surface of the eye (such as pollen; see also allergy to mold, dander, dust). Food allergies and drug allergies are common. Allergic reactions can be caused by insect bites, jewelry, cosmetics, and almost any substance that contacts the body.
Some people have allergic-type reactions to hot or cold temperatures, sunlight, or other physical stimuli. In some persons, friction (rubbing or vigorously stroking the skin) will cause symptoms. (See also atopic dermatitis and contact dermatitis.)
Allergies are relatively common. Both hereditary and environmental factors have been found to play a role.
For more information just click on the link?
2006-07-28 10:03:06
·
answer #1
·
answered by Anonymous
·
0⤊
1⤋
Make sure you get a complete work up. Dizziness can be allergies,but it can also be a sign of low blood pressure among other things. Does it happen randomly? Make a list of what bothers you and take it with you to the doctor. Don't leave until you are satisfied with how they handle your symptoms.
2006-07-30 13:22:14
·
answer #2
·
answered by tk30606 2
·
0⤊
0⤋
Why do people answer questions by cutting and pasting a whole bunch of crap? Wow. Anyway, you sound like it's just bad allergies. My daughter's have been bad lately, just the past few weeks. She wakes up with a crusty nose and she's crabby alot. But if yours is year-round could be worse than normal. Just see what the doctor says.
2006-07-28 17:31:02
·
answer #3
·
answered by Lindsay M 5
·
0⤊
0⤋
i also feels same way... most of the times i wake up with nasal congestant and my head aches real bad from time to time... doctor said i have migraine... and sometimes taking medicines causes allergic rhinitis... maybe you have one... sometimes,allergy form medicines is due to reasons like your somewhat immune to that medicine already and therefore u need to try another medicine yet simillar in effect.. like nasal decongestants... u can try another brand if u feel like ur immune system is not responding anymore to ur usual med...
maybe u don't have just allergy but u also have some sort of illness u just dont know yet... so u should go and see a doctor if i were u...
2006-07-29 03:57:09
·
answer #4
·
answered by angel r 2
·
0⤊
0⤋
Allergy to mold is one that I know lasts year round.
Try getting an air purifier or filter for your bedroom and make sure you change the filter on your AC every 2-3 months or so.
2006-07-29 22:28:43
·
answer #5
·
answered by palspals420 1
·
0⤊
0⤋
when I am laying down and I get up really quickly, I feel kinda dizzy so I guess it is normal.
2006-07-28 17:03:40
·
answer #6
·
answered by Gagan B 3
·
0⤊
0⤋