Frequently asked questions about allergies
Allergies are an overreaction of the immune system. People who have allergies have a hyper-alert immune system that overreacts to a substance in the environment called an allergen. Exposure to what is normally a harmless substance, such as pollen, ca
Of all the things that can cause an allergy, pollen is one of the most widespread. Each spring, summer, and fall, tiny particles are released from trees, weeds, and grasses. These particles, known as pollen, hitch rides on currents of air. Although t
Along with pollens from trees, grasses, and weeds, molds are an important cause of seasonal allergic rhinitis. People allergic to molds may have symptoms from spring to late fall. The mold season often peaks from July to late summer. Unlike pollens,
For millions of Americans, the world is a scary place, filled with normally harmless substances that their bodies recognize as enemies. Of all the enemies, one is virtually inescapable: house dust. What makes lowly house dust such a plague to allergy
Yes, allergies can sometimes cause chest pain. Allergies can cause inflammation in the body, including the respiratory system. This inflammation can lead to chest tightness, difficulty breathing, and chest pain. Allergic reactions can also cause symp
We’ve all been there. You dust all the furniture and a few days later it’s covered in dust again. You glance toward a window on a sunny day and see particles, floating freely in the air. Household dust is a mixture of many different substances that c
Allergies are often hereditary. If you have a family history of allergies, you are more likely to develop allergies yourself. However, it is not always the case that if one parent has allergies, the child will also have allergies. It is possible for
Allergy symptoms can be worse in the morning for a few reasons. One possible explanation is that the body's natural cortisol levels are highest in the morning, and cortisol can suppress the immune system, making a person more susceptible to an allerg
Trust us, you are not alone. It is estimated that approximately 50 million people in the United States have allergies. Allergies affect people of all ages and can cause a wide range of symptoms, from mild to severe. Some of the most common allergens
Doctors use several methods to test for allergies, and the most appropriate method will depend on the suspected allergen and the individual's symptoms. Some of the most common methods include:. Skin Prick Test: The skin prick test is a common and qui
Allergies are becoming increasingly common in developed countries and the reasons for this increase are not fully understood. However, several theories have been proposed to explain this trend. The Hygiene Hypothesis suggests that cleaner and more st
Eye allergies, also known as ocular allergies or allergic conjunctivitis, occur when the immune system overreacts to a substance (allergen) that comes into contact with the eyes. Symptoms can include itching, redness, watering, and puffiness of the e
Acupuncture is believed to help reduce inflammation and improve the body's immune system, which can help reduce the symptoms of allergies. It can also help reduce stress, which can help reduce the severity of allergies. According to some studies, acu