What is an allergy?

An allergy occurs when our bodies think something harmless (or good) such as food is dangerous (or bad). The thing itself isn’t harmful but the way one’s body treats it is. When our bodies detect something it’s allergic to, it releases histamine into the blood. This can affect our eyes, nose, throat, skin, stomach and lungs. You can notice that something isn’t right immediately or within hours. Hives or tingling/swelling of the lips and mouth are often early signs that something is wrong.

What are common allergies?

• peanuts and other nuts

• seafood, such as shrimp

• milk, particularly cow’s milk

• eggs

• soy

• wheat

How do we treat allergies?

Often times, the easiest way to help reduce allergies is to avoid what our bodies are allergic to. Sometimes, we take medication that helps reduce the symptoms of allergies. If someone has a severe allergy, they may carry an epi-pen with them. An epi-pen contains medication that can be used to prevent or stop symptoms of an allergic reaction. The epi-pen should be used at the first sign of a severe allergic reaction.