Understanding Allergies

Allergies occur when your body's immune system reacts to things in your environment that would be considered safe for most people.

Your body's immune system is your body's way of defending itself against germs and bacteria that you come in contact with that can harm the body. In people with allergies, the body's immune system reacts against things such as pollens (seasonal allergies), dust mites, foods, metals, medicines, insect stings or pet dander, things that normally would not cause any harm. Individuals with allergies are usually allergic to more than one thing.