ALLERGIES

UNDERSTANDING ALLERGIESAllergies are when your body's human system overreacts to a substance (such as pollen, dust, pets) that are normally seen as harmless.Although some individuals may be allergic to one certain 'allergen', others may suffer from a wide range of different things.HOW DOES IT OCCUR?The process begins when your immune system mistakes a harmless object for a dangerous invader. As a result, the immune system produces antibodies that are on the alert for that specific threat. When the body comes into contact with the invader again, these antibodies release numerous chemicals that cause allergy symptoms.WARNING SIGNS/SYMPTOMSHay fever, or allergic rhinitis, may cause:• Sneezing• Itching of the nose, eyes or roof of mouth• Runny, stuffy nose• Watery, red or swollen eyes Food allergy may cause:• Tingling mouth• Swelling of the lips, tongue, face or throat• HivesInsect sting allergy may cause:• A large area of swelling at the sting site• Itching or hives all over body• Cough, chest tightness, wheezing or shortness of breathDrug allergy may cause:• Hives• Itchy skin• Rash• Facial swelling• Wheezing

FUN FACT:'A sneeze itself is a mixed blessing. Though a sneeze protects the sneezer, it can make other people sick. When you sneeze, you blast all those bacterial droplets into the air.'

Common Allergens(harmless invaders)

ACHOOOOOOO

• pollen from trees/ grasses• proteins produced from dust mites• mold• foods items such as peanuts, milk, eggs• pets and other furry or hairy animals such as horses, rabbits, cats, dogs• insects like wasps and bees• medicines (aspirin)

BY: EVELYN DAVID

ALLERGIES

by: Evelyn David