Allergies
An allergy is characterized by the immune system’s inappropriate response to a normally harmless substance. When the body reacts this way, the white blood cells overreact and the allergic response becomes the disease itself. Common allergens are: pollen, dust, certain metals, lanolin, dust mites, animal hair, insect venom, common drugs (i.e. penicillin), some food additives, chemicals found in soaps & detergents, and of course, many people are allergic to specific foods as well.
Symptoms May Include:
- Nasal congestion
- Coughing and/or wheezing
- Itching
- Shortness of breath
- Headaches & fatigue
- Hives or skin rashes
Food allergy symptoms:
- Trouble breathing or swallowing with possible swelling of tongue
- Diarrhea & abdominal pain
