Allergies (seasonal or chronic)

Allergies are hypersensitive immune reactions to substances that are generally harmless to most people. They can be seasonal or chronic. Pollen, dust mites, mould spores, pet dander, specific foods, insect stings, and medications are examples of these substances, also referred to as allergens. Allergy sufferers experience a variety of symptoms as a result of their immune system mistaking allergens for dangers and releasing chemicals like histamine. Seasonal allergies, also known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis, are most prevalent during particular seasons of the year and are brought on by outdoor allergens such as pollen from grasses, weeds, and trees. Contrarily, chronic allergies last all year long and are typically brought on by indoor allergens like mould, dust, or animal dander. Sneezing, nasal congestion, runny nose, watery or itchy eyes, coughing, postnasal drip, and occasionally skin rashes or hives are all common signs of allergic reactions. In more extreme situations, allergies may cause symptoms of asthma or anaphylaxis, which is a potentially fatal reaction that needs to be treated right away. Medical history, physical examination, and allergy testing—such as skin prick or blood tests to identify particular allergens—are usually used to make the diagnosis. Avoiding known triggers, taking drugs like antihistamines, decongestants, nasal corticosteroids, or leukotriene inhibitors, and occasionally receiving immunotherapy (allergy shots) to progressively desensitise the immune system are all part of the treatment for allergies. Allergies cannot be cured, but they can frequently be effectively managed to lessen symptoms and enhance quality of life.