Allergies

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Allergic reactions	Allergies	Allergy symptoms	Antibodies
Histamine is released	Hives (urticaria) - close-up	Hives (urticaria) on the arm	Hives (urticaria) on the chest
Hives (urticaria) on the trunk	Introduction to allergy treatment

Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) require a medicine called epinephrine, which can be life saving when immediately given.

See: Asthma and allergy support group

Most allergies can be easily treated with medication.

Some children may outgrow an allergy. This is particularly true of food allergies. However, as a general rule, once a substance has triggered an allergic reaction, it continues to affect the person.

Allergy shots are most effective when used to treat those with hay fever symptoms and severe insect sting allergies. They do not work well for food allergies. Allergy shots may require years of treatment, but they work in about two-thirds of cases. However, they may cause uncomfortable side effects (such as hives and rash) and dangerous outcomes (such as anaphylaxis).

• Anaphylaxis (life-threatening allergic reaction)
• Breathing problems and discomfort during the allergic reaction
• Drowsiness and other side effects of medicines

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if:

• Severe symptoms of allergy occur
• Treatment for allergies no longer works

Review Date: 02/15/2007
Reviewed By: Donald Accetta, MD, MPH, President, Allergy & Asthma Care, PC, Taunton, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.