An allergy is a reaction the body has to a particular food or substance.

Allergies are very common and affect more than one in four people in the UK. Young children tend to have some form of allergy though many simply go away as they grow older. Adults can develop allergies

to things that previously caused no harm/ill effect. Having an allergy can be a nuisance but are manageable. Severe reactions occur but are rare.

Common allergens include

• Pollen (Hay fever)
• Dust mites
• Animal dander (Tiny flakes of skin or hair)
• Medication
• Latex (Used in making gloves)
• Mould (Small air particles)
• Food (Particularly nuts, shellfish and cows milk)
• Household chemicals

Symptoms to look out for

• Sneezing
• Itchy, red, runny eyes
• Runny or blocked nose
• Wheeze or cough
• Red, itchy rash
• Worsening of Asthma or Eczema

Most reactions are mild though occasionally a severe reaction or anaphylaxis can occur. If an anaphylactic shock does occur, it is a medical emergency and appropriate steps need to be taken to seek treatment.

Here at The Devon Clinic, we offer Allergy Testing.