Allergy: Causes and Risk Factors
An allergy is an exaggerated immune response or reaction to substances that are generally not harmful.
Causes and risk factors
Allergies are relatively common and caused by both genetics and environmental factors.
The immune system normally protects the body against harmful substances, such as bacteria and viruses. It also reacts to foreign substances called allergens, which are generally harmless and in most people do not cause a problem.
The immune response is oversensitive in a person with allergies.. When it recognizes an allergen, it releases chemicals such as histamines. which fight with allergen. This causes itching, swelling, mucus production, muscle spasms, hives, rashes, and other symptoms, which vary from person to person.
Common allergens include pollen, mold, pet dander, and dust.
Food and drug allergies are common. Allergic reactions can also be caused by insect bites, jewelry, cosmetics, spices, and other substances.
A specific allergy is not usually passed down through families (inherited). However, if both your parents have allergies, you are likely to have allergies. The chance is greater if your mother has allergies.
Allergies may make certain medical conditions such as sinus problems,eczema, and asthma worse.
AIRBORNE ALLERGENS: such as pollen, animal dander, dust mites and mold.
FOOD ALLERGENS : peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, soy, fish, shellfish, ,milk
DRUG ALLERGENS: pencillin or pencillin based antibiotics
SKIN : latex or other substances when they are touched may cause skin allergic reactions.