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What is Allergy?
Allergy is the body's abnormal response
to some foreign substance. The body's immune system recognizes the
presence of this foreign substance and starts a reaction to prevent
their invasion. In most people, this is not a problem. However,
in the person with allergies, the immune system is overactive and
identifies normally harmless particles as dangerous, producing an
excessive reaction.
Are allergies very common?
Yes. It
is estimated that more than 20% of the population suffer from Classical
allergy symptoms but a significantly higher proportion suffer from
Delayed or Food Intolerance. The numbers are increasing. Genetics
are playing a part in the increase in allergies.
What is
hay fever?
Scientifically it is called allergic rhinitis. The
most common symptoms include sneezing, stuffy or runny nose, and
itchy or watery eyes. It most frequently occurs during the spring
or autumn when trees, grasses, and weeds
are pollinating.
What are common symptoms of allergy?
Common
allergy symptoms include sneezing, stuffy or runny nose (allergic
rhinitis), itchy nose, itchy or watery eyes (allergic conjunctivitis),
asthma, and dermatitis. Other symptoms may include chronic sinus
infections, headaches, fatigue, and GI upset.
How accurate
are these tests?
These tests are the accurate-the ELISA test
has been shown to be about 95% accurate. The results
are reproducible and reliable.
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