Health Care

Allergies An allergy is a condition in which the immune system reacts to a harmless substance, such as pollen, pet dander, or certain foods as if it were harmful . This can cause a wide range of symptoms, including sneezing, runny nose, itching, and in more severe cases, hives, difficulty breathing, and even anaphylaxis . Some common types of allergies include hay fever (allergic rhinitis), food allergies, and allergic asthma . Allergies can be treated with a variety of methods, such as over-the-counter or prescription medication, immunotherapy, and lifestyle changes . Anaphylaxis Anaphylaxis is a severe and life-threatening allergic reaction. It occurs when the body's immune system overreacts to an allergen, releasing chemicals such as histamine that can cause a wide range of symptoms . These symptoms can include hives, itching, swelling of the face, tongue, and throat, difficulty breathing, a drop in blood pressure, and rapid heartbeat . In extreme cases, anaphylaxis can lead to...