Allergy - Infographic

Allergy is a common illness widespread and affects approximately one in four of the population in the UK at some time in their lives.

Every year the numbers are increasing with the same number of as half of each one of those affected being children.

Allergy occurs when a person's immune system reacts abnormally to foreign substances, in the environment that is usually harmless for many people. Allergies can be seasonal or can happen whenever someone comes in contact with an allergen.

Allergies can develop at any age. The severity of allergy varies from person to person and can range from minor irritation to anaphylaxis. There are different types of allergy triggers. Substances that regularly cause allergic reactions are pollen, dust mites, foods, insect sting, drugs, pet dander, and medicines.

Allergies can cause running nose, sneezing, coughing, itching, skin rashes, tickling or itchy in the ears or nose. Symptoms vary from person to person with the type of allergen.

Keeping away from the allergen or minimizing the exposure is the most effective preventive measure against allergies.