Allergy is a specific immunologic reaction to a normally harmless substance - a substance that does not bother most people.

Types of allergens that cause allergic reactions include pollens, dust, dust mites, mold, food, latex, insect venom, and medicines.

It is estimated that 40-50 million people in the United States suffer from allergies.

Allergies are managed with medication, avoidance, and allergy injections.

Children are more likely to develop allergies if one of their parents has allergies. The risk is higher if both parents have allergies.

Allergy is the 6th leading cause of chronic disease in the U.S. and the 3rd leading cause of chronic disease in children under 18 years.

People are exposed to allergens through inhalation, ingestion, and contact.

Allergy symptoms include sneezing, runny noze, itchy watery eyes, scratchy throat, hives, rashes, and headaches.

Some people who have allergies also develop asthma with symptons of coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath.

Food allergy symptoms include itching, hives, rash, generalized swelling, nausea, and diarrhea.

More than 200 deaths occur each year from food allergy.

Nearly 100 Americans die yearly due to insect allergies.

Latex allergy accounts for approximately 10 deaths yearly.

It is possible to "grow out of" some allergies or develop new allergies.

Indoor allergens play a major role in allergic diseases such as asthma and perennial allergic rhinitis. Most Americans spend more than 20 hours indoors each day.

Outdoor allergens (pollens) play a major role in seasonal allergy symptoms.

Approximately 10 million people are allergic to cat dander, the most common pet allergy.

Food allergy is more common among children than adults. 90% of all food allergy reations are caused by these foods: milk, soy, eggs, wheat, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, and shellfish.

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Resources:

www.aafa.org
www.aaaai.org
www.allergyasthmatech.com
health.village.com