Links to further information:
http://www.healthnavigator.org.nz/health-topics/allergies/
Allergies
Allergies are very common and affect about one in three New Zealanders at some time in their lives. There are many different causes of allergy, and symptoms range from mild hay-fever (runny nose and itchy eyes) to potentially life threatening or anaphylactic reactions.
An allergy occurs when a person’s immune system over-reacts to substances — called an allergen — in the environment. People react to different allergens. Common allergens include house dust mites, grasses, pollen, pets, foods, some medications, insect stings, latex and moulds.
Key Points:
Allergies are common, however with treatment most people can manage their allergies with minimal problems.
Children have more allergies than adults. As our immune system matures, some allergies disappear.
Allergies occur when your immune system treats an allergen as an invader and begins to create antibodies against it.
The symptoms of allergic reactions range from mild to severe to life threatening.
The best way to prevent symptoms is to avoid what triggers the allergy. Talk with your healthcare team to find out what other treatments will help such as nasal sprays, antihistamine tablets and eye drops.
Series of 5 videos from Allergy UK. Click on image to go to videos.
Allergies
