Does doggie dander make you sneeze? Can freshly cut grass bring tears to your eyes? Are you rashy, itchy, congested or wheezy? If so, you may have an allergy.

An allergy results when the body's immune system has an abnormal reaction to a trigger (the allergen). About 50 million Americans are affected by allergies. Reactions can range from fairly mild, like sneezing or coughing, to life-threatening.

Common allergens include animal dander and saliva, dust mites (actually, their airborne fecal matter), insect stings or bites, certain medications, injected anesthetics or dyes used in medical tests, latex, mold and pollen. Allergies to particular foods – most often peanuts, eggs and shellfish – are not unusual. Some individuals react to dairy products, wheat and other foodstuffs, but medical tests are necessary to determine if these are true allergies or simply an intolerance. The good news is that most people can control their symptoms with a combination of lifestyle changes and medications.

If you suspect you are suffering from allergies, talk with your health care provider about allergy testing. A simple series of tests may help pinpoint your particular allergens. Then, take steps to prevent or minimize reactions by avoiding the allergen and, if appropriate, using over-the-counter or prescription medications to address specific symptoms. Antihistamines may help with sneezing and wheezing, and decongestants can help combat congestion. Topical treatments, such as cortisone cream or ointment, may help reduce inflammation and rashes as well as relieve itching.

For some individuals, allergic reactions are more than a nuisance. Penicillin, a bee sting or even a whiff of peanut crumbs can result in life-threatening anaphylaxis, sometimes called anaphylactic shock. Anaphylaxis occurs when the body's immune system overreacts to an allergen, causing a drop in blood pressure and difficulty breathing. It can lead to death if not treated immediately.

It is not unusual for the first encounter with the allergen to produce a mild reaction, but if you are susceptible, subsequent exposures can increase sensitivity to the danger point. Talk with your health care provider if you suspect you may be at risk for a serious allergic reaction. He or she may recommend that you carry an Epi-Pen^®, which can be used to quickly inject a dose of epinephrine to counteract anaphylaxis.

You may also want to wear a "medic-alert" bracelet or carry a card in your wallet or purse alerting medical personnel of your allergies.

Preventing Allergic Reactions
If you are allergic to pollen, mold, dust mites or pet dander, you can help minimize reactions:

• Filter the air in your home with a high-efficiency air filter. Clean furnace air filters frequently.
• Prevent mold growth by keeping the humidity below 50 percent.
• Avoid having pets that trigger your allergies. If you do, keep them out of your bedroom.
• Use special covers for pillows, mattresses and box springs and avoid down-filled bedding.
• Clean and vacuum often, and wear a face mask and gloves while housecleaning.
• Choose hardwood, vinyl or ceramic flooring rather than carpeting.

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