Allergy: a medical condition in which the immune system reacts abnormally to a foreign substance, such as pollen, food, or animal dander, causing symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and difficulty breathing. Allergies can range from mild to severe and can be managed through avoidance of the allergen, medication, or immunotherapy.
Allergy refers to a hypersensitive reaction of the immune system to a specific substance, known as an allergen. Common allergens include pollen, certain foods, insect stings, and medications. Allergic reactions can range from mild symptoms such as sneezing and itching to severe and life-threatening reactions such as anaphylaxis. In legal terms, individuals with allergies may be entitled to certain accommodations and protections under disability and discrimination laws, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in the United States. These accommodations may include the right to a safe and allergen-free environment in the workplace or educational setting, as well as the right to carry and administer medication such as epinephrine in case of an emergency. It is important for individuals with allergies to be aware of their legal rights and seek appropriate legal counsel if they believe their rights are being violated.
Q: What is an allergy?
A: An allergy is an abnormal immune response to a substance that is typically harmless to most people. The immune system overreacts to this substance, known as an allergen, triggering various symptoms.
Q: What are common allergens?
A: Common allergens include pollen, dust mites, pet dander, mold spores, certain foods (such as peanuts, shellfish, and dairy), insect stings, and certain medications.
Q: What are the symptoms of an allergy?
A: Allergy symptoms can vary depending on the type of allergy, but common symptoms include sneezing, itching, runny or stuffy nose, watery eyes, hives, rashes, swelling, coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and in severe cases, anaphylaxis.
Q: How are allergies diagnosed?
A: Allergies can be diagnosed through various methods, including a detailed medical history, physical examination, allergy skin tests, blood tests (such as IgE tests), and elimination diets.
Q: How can I manage my allergies?
A: Managing allergies involves avoiding allergens whenever possible, taking medications (such as antihistamines, nasal sprays, or eye drops) to relieve symptoms, using allergy-proof bedding and air filters, and considering immunotherapy (allergy shots) for long-term relief.
Q: Can allergies be cured?
A: While there is no cure for allergies, symptoms can be effectively managed through proper treatment and avoidance of allergens. In some cases, children may outgrow certain allergies as they get older.
Q: Can allergies be life-threatening?
A: Yes, severe allergies can be life-threatening. Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can cause difficulty breathing, a drop in blood pressure, and loss of consciousness. It requires immediate medical attention and the use of epinephrine (EpiPen) to counteract the reaction.
Q: Can allergies develop later in life?
A: Yes, allergies can develop at any age, even if you have never experienced them before. It is possible for new allergies to emerge later in life due to changes in the immune system or exposure to new allergens.
Q: Are there any natural remedies for allergies?
A: Some people find relief from allergies through natural remedies such as saline nasal rinses, herbal supplements (e.g., butterbur, quercetin), acupuncture, and consuming local honey. However,
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This glossary post was last updated: 29th March 2024.
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