What Is an Allergy?[/size][/color]
An allergy is the body's hypersensitivity to substances in the environment. Allergic reactions range from mild itching, sneezing or eczema (inflamed, itchy skin), to severe hives, hay fever, wheezing, and shortness of breath. An extreme allergic reaction can result in anaphylactic shock, a life-threatening situation in which a person's airway swells shut and blood pressure drops.
Scientists believe allergies originated millions of years ago as a way for the human body to rid itself of parasites and invading worms. The body fights these and other invaders by producing an antibody called immunoglobulin E (IgE for short) in the intestines and lungs. Without modern parasites to fight, IgE reacts to other foreign substances in the body. IgE triggers immune cells to release a number of chemicals, one of which is histamine. Histamine produces hives, watery eyes, sneezing, and itching. The more a person is exposed to allergens, the more the body produces IgE; hence, allergies often get worse with age.
You can reduce your allergic misery if you take steps to keep the culprits out of your house.
For seasonal allergies caused by plants and trees, keep windows shut and the air conditioner on. Purchase an air filter to clean out pollens, molds and dust. Use a dehumidifier in damp areas like the basement. Install wood, tile or vinyl floors rather than carpet because they can be mopped regularly. If you do have carpets, have someone else do the vacuuming or buy a machine designed to reduce dust emissions.
Minimize clutter, book collections, and bric-a-brac, which collect dust and pollens. Keep pets outside or bathe them regularly if they're indoors, and don't let them sleep in your bed. Wash your hair every day to rinse off dust and pollen, and if you've been in the yard, leave shoes at the door and wash your clothes in hot water as soon as possible.
