| In the United States, more than 20% of the adults | | | | in an unusual way. |
| and children are affected by allergies, meaning-millions | | | | Visible results of an allergic reaction may be: watery |
| are affected each year! Allergies, depending on the | | | | eyes, hives, itching, or trouble breathing. If the body's |
| source of the reaction, can affect people at different | | | | itching should change to swelling or pain and vomiting, |
| times of their lives or at different seasons. | | | | immediate help is required. You may be suffering |
| There are various sources of these maladies. Pollen, | | | | from anaphylaxis. |
| dust mites, food, and mold may be the very sources | | | | Antihistamines, nasal sprays, and decongestants |
| that bring the reaction to you. | | | | prescribed by your doctor can treat most allergies. If |
| Parents who have suffered from allergies may have | | | | you enforce some lifestyle changes, such as removal |
| passed this on to their children, since allergies can be | | | | of pets or dusting your home more frequently, your |
| inherited. This does not mean, however; that you will | | | | exposure to allergens can be greatly diminished. |
| be plagued by the same allergies. It means the | | | | Sometimes, these methods you have tried don't |
| tendency to have an allergy is stronger for the child, | | | | work; then, shots may become necessary to help |
| if the parent has had one. When the immune system | | | | with the allergies. This type of treatment is known as |
| is weak, a reaction to a specific substance may be | | | | immunotherapy. The shots allow you to remain free |
| greater. | | | | of symptoms. For many, the shots present a "cure." |
| What is an allergy? | | | | Check with your doctor, if you think that you may |
| Allergies may be the result of the way your body | | | | indeed have an allergy. You will discover many |
| copes with certain substances. Being around elements | | | | methods to living an allergy-free life. |
| such as mold or pollen may cause the body to react | | | | |