How do symptoms develop?
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Symptoms of allergy are due to the immune system reacting to an allergen (such as mite droppings or dander from a pet). Cells in the lining of the nose and eye release histamine and other chemicals when they come into contact with the allergen. This can cause:
- inflammation in the nose (rhinitis). Symptoms include sneezing, a blocked or congested nose, a watery discharge ('runny nose'), and an itchy nose.
- inflammation of the front of the eye (conjunctivitis). Symptoms include red, watering and itchy eyes.
If you already have asthma, the allergy can sometimes make the symptoms of asthma worse.
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Where to next?
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Immunotherapy (desensitisation)
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Allergies: Help and advice
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Contact dermatitis
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Final information on nut allergy
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Hay fever
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Hay fever: Is it worse than ever?
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Hives (acute urticaria)
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How common is nut allergy and what are the symptoms?
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How do symptoms develop?
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How is nut allergy diagnosed?
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Immune system quiz - How well are you?
