Skip to content
WebMD: Better information. Better health.
 
Other search tools:Symptoms|Doctors|Medical Dictionary

Allergies Health Center

Allergies Overview

At least one out of every 5 Americans suffers from allergies. Common causes of allergy symptoms include food allergies such as peanut allergy or milk allergy, and seasonal allergies resulting from grass, weed, tree pollen, or various molds. Cat allergies and dog allergies can also cause miserable symptoms such as itchy eyes, sneezing, nasal congestion, and wheezing. Allergic skin conditions can cause a rash and itchy skin.

Select a Chapter

Get News Updates | RSS Help

latest headlines

Are Vacuum Cleaners Bad for Your Health?

You vacuum your house religiously to get rid of all the dust, dirt, and bacteria and make sure your indoor air is up to snuff. But new research suggests that some vacuum cleaners may actually be making things worse, not better.

Top Stories

Tools & Resources

Allergy Basics

What Is an Allergy?

Allergies are an abnormal response of the immune system. People who have allergies have an immune system that reacts to a usually harmless substance in the environment. This substance (pollen, mold, animal dander, etc.) is called an allergen.

Allergies are a very common problem, affecting at least two out of every 10 Americans.

Allergy Basics

Women's Health Newsletter

Find out what women really need.