An allergy is an abnormal reaction or increased sensitivity to certain substances or "allergens." The allergic individual produces symptoms when exposed to these substances which are harmless to non-allergic people. Many people have few, if any, allergies. Others are so incredibly allergic that merely taking an aspirin or getting stung by a bee can trigger a potentially life-threatening allergic reaction

Common indoor allergens

• house dust
• mold
  
• feathers
  
• wool
  
• cosmetics
  
• dander or furry pets
  
• tobacco smoke
  
• aerosols
  
• fresh paint

Allergens affect your immune system

When your immune system is exposed to allergens, it produces antibodies that attach themselves to certain cells in your body. These cells are found in your respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts, in your skin, and also in your blood. As part of the allergic reaction, these cells release potent chemicals such as histamine. This produces many of the familiar allergic symptoms seen in hay fever, for example -- runny eyes and nose, itching and sneezing.

What can you do to prevent allergies?

You can't prevent allergies. About all you can do is to avoid symptoms by avoiding known allergens.

If you are allergic to common outdoor/indoor allergens such as pollen, trees, dust, dander or grass there are also some simple steps you can take to find relief:

• Keep your windows closed and avoid spending time outdoors when your allergies are acting up.
• Use of a quality air filtration system can reduce the level of allergens in your indoor air.
  
• Wear a protective allergy mask when you're doing yard work.
  
• Avoid fresh-cut grass