Allergies Facts

This article explains the basics of an allergic reaction. Learn what happens when your immune system goes on high alert.

People with allergies also can develop red, swollen, and itchy eyes when exposed to their allergic triggers. 

If you've got allergies, you might wonder what to expect in the long term. Are you stuck with allergy symptoms, or will they get better? Or could they actually get even worse?

The air you breathe, whatever touches your skin, anything you put in your mouth – it’s all got potential for causing an allergy.

Dust mites are microscopic organisms that live in house dust. Symptoms of a dust mite allergy are similar to pollen allergy but often occur year round rather than just seasonally. Treatment may include medications such as antihistamines, decongestants, or nasal sprays.

Help prevent dust mite allergies by putting  dust mite covers over mattresses, pillows, and box springs, using hypoallergenic pillows, washing sheets weekly in hot water, and keeping all areas of the house, especially the bedroom, free of dust collecting-items including stuffed animals, curtains, and carpet. The humidity should be kept below 45%.