Allergies Health Center

9 Questions
For your allergist.

10 Questions
For your pediatrician.

Allergies FAQ
What you need to know.

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

Latest Headlines

Blocking Allergy Symptoms: How Pretreatment Works
Tackle allergies before they start -- and you could be breathing a lot easier.

Read Full Article

Living with Allergies

WebMD

Community & Resources

Blogs

More Blogs

Springtime allergies cramping your style? Get the latest allergy information from Dr. Paul Enright.

Boards

More Boards

Resources

Is It an Allergy or a Cold?

Top Search Terms for Allergies

Allergies

Food Allergies

Symptoms of Allergies

Allergic Skin Reaction

Dog Allergy

What Causes Allergies?

Seasonal Allergies

Wheat Allergy

Mold Allergy

Allergies to Latex

Peanut Allergy

Cat Allergy

Expect More from your Asthma Medication

Tests &
Medications

Allergy Basics

What Are Allergies?

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 2 out of every 10 Americans.