An allergy is a form of irritation eliciting chemical reactions caused by an agent to a host. In common language, this refers to a form of chemical reaction of the body as a response to a foreign chemical or an environmental condition. The agent that causes the irritation or reaction to the body is called an allergen. Allergens take on many forms. This means that there are many forms of allergies. The reaction that the human body produces is called an allergic reaction. We shall present some of the most common allergies that affect people.

Dust Allergy - Many people have very sensitive nostrils such that even small and semi-microscopic particles cause irritation on the nose and nostrils. These particles can range from house dust to minute pollen grains found in plants and flowers. Persons who exhibit symptoms of being allergic to dust oftentimes sneeze helplessly when the particles get in immediate contact with the nostrils. Usually, the sneezing ceases when the particles are expelled. However, there are some cases wherein the sneezing persists even if the particles have been expelled. In the case where the sneezing persists, we encounter a form of sustained allergic reaction, wherein the reaction (i.e. sneezing) continues for a time. In some cases, those persons who are allergic to dust experience itchiness of the eyes, nose or throat, when they come in contact with dust. Persons who are allergic to dust are usually advised not to have carpets on their bedrooms and should, and as much as possible, should avoid exposure in dusty places or streets.

Skin Allergy - This type of allergy can be caused by several allergens ranging from radioactive waves, lotions, perfumes, food or even direct exposure sunlight. Mild forms of skin allergy involve swelling on the skin, discoloration, or itchiness on the part of the skin that had been exposed to the particular allergen. Many times, the effect of the allergic reaction is exacerbated by scratching the irritated part of the skin. It would be best not to scratch the skin when experiencing a skin allergic reaction since scratches may pave the way for bacterial infection, more especially if the act of scratching produces a laceration or small wound. The relief from the irritation caused by skin allergies may be obtained with treatment using corticosteroid cream. However, if a person is allergic to this cream, it is best to consult a dermatologist for appropriate medicine and treatment. Those with sensitive skin and especially those who have a low melanin content on their skin should avoid direct exposure to sunlight.

Chemical Allergy - The makeup of the human body is so unique and its reactions to various chemicals take on various levels. Thus, it would be tedious to list all the chemicals that may cause allergy since the bodily reactions to these chemicals are at least as numerous as the chemicals themselves. The most common cases of chemical allergy are those caused by food. Many individuals are allergic to crustaceans (e.g. prawns, crabs, etc), some are allergic to meat, and others are allergic even to tomatoes or red colored food. In the case of those allergic to tomatoes and other similarly colored food, the allergic reaction is caused by the chemical that makes the food red. It can be as simple as that. Another very common chemical allergy is the allergy to wine and alcoholic substances. Again, we must say that allergic reactions can be of varying degrees. The reactions may simply be a discoloration on the skin, an irritation on a part of the body, or in extreme cases may be fatal, especially if the allergen had been taken above the individual's upper threshold of tolerance for the substance.

The best advice for patients is to completely avoid the substances or environmental conditions to which they are allergic.

But still, great help may be given by supplemental boosters. There are many nutritional supplements that may relieve allergy. Recent research has shown that bromelain, bioflavonoids, calcium, magnesium and licorice help alleviate the effects of allergy. Quercetin is a bioflavinoid found in strawberries. It controls the release of histamine and thus may help in reducing the severity of allergic reactions.