What are common allergies?

Some of the more common allergens include grass and tree pollen, dust mites, animal dander, food (such as nuts and shellfish), insect bites/stings, medication, latex, mould, and household chemicals. While harmless to most people, these can trigger allergic reactions in some individuals.

What are the symptoms of allergies?

The symptoms of allergies can vary depending on what you're allergic to and how you encounter it. Common symptoms include runny nose, watery eyes, and coughing, feeling sick and even skin rashes. Allergic reactions can happen quickly, it's important to be aware of the symptoms and seek treatment. An allergy can lead to a severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis. This life-threatening condition requires immediate medical attention.

What causes allergies?

Allergies occur when your immune system mistakenly reacts to harmless substances as if they are harmful. It's not clear why this happens, but most affected individuals have a family history of allergies or related conditions like asthma and eczema.

How to treat allergies?

Dealing with allergies can be a real pain, but the good news is that there are treatments out there to help you feel better. In a perfect world, the most effective way to manage allergies is to avoid exposure to what you’re allergic too. This is manageable with food allergies as you can be extra careful with what you eat, but airborne allergies, like hay fever, it can prove more difficult. There are many treatment options available like antihistamines, decongestion sprays and steroids.

Ask our pharmacist for advice on the best treatment options for you.