Allergies are described as incorrect responses within the body to things or substances which are typically harmless.

For people with allergies, the immune system is overzealous and reacts when they inhale, swallow or touch normally harmless substances (known as allergens), such as pollen or dust.

This results in the release of the chemical histamine, which causes the swelling, inflammation, and itching of tissues that is characteristic of allergies.

Almost any substance can cause allergies in a person who is sensitive to that particular substance.

When a person has allergies, exposure to an allergen can cause a wide variety of symptoms, depending on the specific allergies, the type of exposure and the severity of the allergies. The symptoms of allergies can make you feel miserable and rotten! It is a good idea for anyone suffereng from allergies to get to know which allergens you are allergic to so that you can control your exposure and therefore, the symptoms.

Allergies are very common and affect more than 20 percent of adults and children in the United States. According to the Allergy Report from the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, allergies are the sixth leading cause of chronic illness. It usually develops during childhood or early adulthood. Most allergies are inherited and people are more likely to be allergic if there is a family history of allergies or asthma.

Read the rest of this article here: Allergies – Symptoms, Causes and Treatment of Allergies