Allergies are an immune system response to a foreign substance that is not typically harmful to the body.Common allergens, are certain food items, dust, pollen, insect stings and certain medications. Allergens can be inhaled (pollens, dust, moulds, fungi, animal dander), eaten (egg white, milk, nuts, shrimps, fish, wheat or rice), injected (bee stings or drugs) or they can come into contact with the skin or eyes (dust, pollens, animal dander, moulds).

An allergy occurs when the immune system mistakenly identifies a harmless substance as a threat and overreacts to it. This reaction can cause various symptoms, ranging from mild discomfort to severe, life-threatening conditions.

Breathing difficulties can be caused due to respiratory problems that come as a result of allergies. The major two types include allergic asthma and allergic rhinitis [hay fever]. The immune system reacts to an allergen by releasing antibodies, causing allergies’ symptoms - substances are mistakenly viewed as harmful (e.g., pollen or pet dander).1 Nasal discharge, nasal congestion and itchy watery eyes due to rhinitis as well as tightened air passages in allergic asthma can easily be cured.

Allergies are a common condition that can significantly impact quality of life. With proper diagnosis, treatment, and management strategies, individuals with allergies can lead healthy and active lives.