Allergy

An allergy is an immune system response to something which is not directly
dangerous to the body. The term was coined by Viennese paediatrician Baron
Clemens von Pirquet in 1906, from the Greek words allos meaning changed or
altered state and ergon meaning reaction or reactivity. He observed the
exaggerated immune responses of some of his patients, and concluded that
they were a response to outside allergens such as dust, pollen, or certain foods.

The most basic allergy symptoms are similar to those of a common cold -
snuffling, itchy eyes, and sneezing. An allergy can also cause skin rashes,
hives or weals such as contact dermatitis or eczema; these are often caused
in reaction to medications.

Hay fever is one example of a very common minor allergy - large percentages
of the population suffer from hayfever symptoms in response to airborne
pollen. Asthmatics are often allergic to dust mites.

Most allergies are minor annoyances, but they are not something to take
lightly. An allergy can also be extremely life-threatening if it is severe,
causing anaphylactic shock and a total shutdown of the airways, circulation
and every function of the body.

Treatment

The only known fundamental treatment for allergy is hyposensibilization.
Other medication, such as by antihistamines and cortisone, has the effect of
reducing the symptoms.

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