Allergy

Allergy (also known as allergic reaction) is an over-reaction of the immune system to substances that are typically harmless to most people. Allergies can cause a range of symptoms including itching, sneezing, skin rashes, diarrhoea and breathing difficulties. Common allergens include pollen, dust mites, mould spores, pet hair, certain foods, insect bites and stings, and medications. Treatments for allergies may include self-care, medications, and allergen immunotherapy (a form of treatment in which a person is gradually exposed to increasing amounts of allergen in order to build up a level of immunity). Allergy is an important field of research due to its implications for the quality of life of patients and its high prevalence in the population.