Allergens invade the body in different ways, seeking various "target tissues." We inhale pollens and mold spores in the air we breathe. We ingest foods and drink that trigger allergic responses. Allergens can be absorbed through the skin by touch. Some allergens enter the body through injection. Drugs, like penicillin, and venom from some insects often cause allergic reactions.
     The body’s immune system automatically produces antibodies for protection. If you are hypersensitive, your immune system is likely to overreact, causing excess production of IgE antibodies. Excess IgE antibodies seek out and attach themselves to the surface of certain cells in blood and other tissues. There they remain "on call," ready to be activated whenever the body encounters the offending allergen. Once activated, IgE antibodies cause the release of inflammatory compounds like histamine which, in turn, produce allergy symptoms.

Target Area Symptoms

• Nose – Nasal itching, congestion, sneezing, post-nasal drip, watery discharge – commonly associated with "hay fever" or allergic rhinitis.
• Eyes – Itching, redness, swelling, tearing and other conjuctivitis symptoms.
• Ears – Fluid in middle ear, recurrent infections.
• Lungs – Asthmatic symptoms such as shortness of breath, wheezing, tightness in the chest, coughing.
• Skin (including lips, inside of mouth/ears) – Itchy welts or "hives" (urticaria) of varying sizes.
• Skin (contact dermatitis) – Blistery rash, intense itching.
• Skin (eczema) – Dry, itchy rash.
• Digestive tract – Stomach cramps, vomiting, diarrhea (associated with food allergy).