ALLERGY FACTS

Although there are many individuals who outgrow allergies over time, allergies can also develop at any age, including during adulthood. While the environment plays a role in allergy development, there is a greater risk of developing allergic conditions if a person has a family history of allergy, especially in parents or siblings.

• allergy involves an exaggerated response of the immune system, often to common substances such as foods or pollen
• the immune system is an intricate system that normally defends the body against foreign invaders, such as bacteria and viruses
• allergens are substances that are foreign to the body and can cause an allergic reaction
• IgE (immunoglobulin E) is the allergic antibody

In addition to trying to determine the allergens (things that cause an allergic reaction) and avoid these allergies (prevention), there are categories of drugs known for their beneficial reaction to allergies. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

Current Allergy Symptoms

Fatigue

• frequent headaches
• red eyes, itchy, weeping and swollen eyelids
• sneezing
• post nasal discharge

Itchy Nose

• frequent colds
• chest tightness, wheezing or asthma
• recurrent ear infections
• dizziness

Chronic Cough or Bronchitis

• chronic sinus infections
• dark circles under eyes
• eczema, rash, itching, urticarial

There are a few classes of medications known to be beneficial for allergies. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about this.