The range of symptoms associated with common allergies is as vast as the types of allergic reactions themselves. Nevertheless, several are common. Identifying them correctly is the first step to proper treatment. A a small number of airborne allergens, such as pollen or certain mold spores, tend to produce certain symptoms.

Two factors come into play with all allergic reactions. These are the allergen and the person who is sensitive to it. An allergen is any substance that causes an allergic reaction in an individual. To understand some of the common causes of allergic reactions, a little simple science is all that is needed.

Over two thirds of all homes have pets. Yet, official estimates of those who are allergic to animals reach as high as 10%. That is a guarantee of a lot of potential allergies. But there are several effective strategies for dealing with those facts.

An allergy is the result of an overreaction by the body's immune system in the presence of an allergen. However, how does that work, exactly? Knowing how the immune system responds to allergies will help you to  understand what is happening when you suffer that runny nose, itchy rash or stomach upset.