All you need to know about allergies
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Allergy is related to the immune system. Normally, the immune system fights harmful things, such as disease. But an allergic person's body believes that, just like a disease, a particular food or other substance poses a danger. Unfortunately, this well-meaning reaction by the immune system can often do a lot of harm.Allergic reactions vary in severity. Mild or moderate symptoms may include itching or swelling in the mouth, hives anywhere on the body, generalised flushing of the skin or nausea and vomiting.A severe allergic reaction is anaphylaxis - the extreme end of the allergic spectrum – and is potentially life-threatening if not treated quickly with adrenaline. The whole body is affected, often within minutes of exposure to the allergen but sometimes after hours. Serious symptoms include a severe drop in blood pressure (where you go weak and floppy), severe asthma, or a closing of the throat.
What can cause anaphylaxis?
Peanuts and tree nuts (hazelnuts, almonds, walnuts, etc) are the most common cause of severe reactions and have received much publicity for that reason. Some people also react to wheat, fish, shellfish, eggs, milk, sesame, soya and a wide range of other foods including some fruits. In the UK, kiwi fruit allergy among children is becoming common. There are also many non-food causes of anaphylaxis such as insect stings, latex and drugs.Symptoms and treatment
Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) – The symptoms can be any or all of the above:- generalised flushing of the skin
- nettle rash (hives) anywhere on the body
- swelling of throat and mouth
- difficulty in swallowing or speaking
- alterations in heart rate
- severe asthma
- abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting
- sudden feeling of weakness (drop in blood pressure)
- collapse and unconsciousness
