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An allergy is a condition in which the body has an abnormal or inappropriate response to a substance (eg food/drug/dogs or other material). Also known as hypersensitivity. Upon exposure to the, otherwise harmless, substance the body over-reacts and a major defense is mounted by the body's immune system against the substances, or allergens, such as chemicals in pollen, food, bee stings, animal dander, or dust. In many cases a person may say that they are allergic to cats or have an allergy to dogs and other animals but, more often than not, the allergy is to the fine dust held in the coats of the animals. Reactions range from mild to severe, and may include sneezing, a rash, or difficulty breathing, which can be fatal(see below). Allergens trigger allergic reactions in people with allergies.

One of the more well-known allergies is to pollen = Hayfever which can spoil a persons vacation. Mild hayfever needs only an antihistamine or perhaps a nasal spray and they can have few side-effect (but care must be taken as they can cause drowsiness). Currently there is an increase in the awarenes of Lactose intolerance which can create an allergic reaction when eating dairy products. so, in most cases there are treatments (including herbal) avaiable and the reactions can be avoided by use of these and care and attention to lifestyle.