All About Allergies: Signs, Causes and When to Get Help

Allergies are a common health issue affecting millions of people in the UK. They occur when the immune system reacts to something that’s typically harmless, such as pollen, dust mites, animal dander, or certain foods, and treats it as a threat.

While most allergic reactions are mild, some can be more serious. Understanding the symptoms, common triggers, and how to manage allergies can make a big difference in your quality of life.

Common Symptoms

Allergic reactions often start within minutes of exposure to the allergen and may include:

• Sneezing

• Watery or itchy eyes

• Runny or blocked nose

• Coughing or wheezing

• Itchy skin or hives

• Sinus pain or pressure

• Nausea, sickness, or diarrhoea

It’s estimated that around 1 in 4 people in the UK will experience an allergy at some point in their life. Allergies are especially common in children, though adults can develop them too.

It is thought that 1 in 4 people in the UK have been affected by an allergy at some point in their lives.

Severe Allergic Reactions: What to Know

In rare cases, an allergy can trigger a life-threatening reaction known as anaphylaxis. This is a medical emergency. Symptoms may include:

• Swelling of the face, tongue, throat, or lips

• Difficulty breathing or swallowing

• Severe abdominal pain

• Feeling faint or dizzy

• Collapse or unconsciousness

If someone is having a severe reaction, call 999 immediately. If they carry an adrenaline auto-injector (such as an EpiPen), this should be used as soon as possible. Adrenaline is typically injected into the outer thigh and can be life-saving.

You can find more information about what to do in the event of anaphylactic shock on the Allergy UK website.

It’s estimated that around 1 in 4 people in the UK will experience an allergy at some point in their life. Allergies are especially common in children, though adults can develop them too.

What Causes Allergies?

There are many potential triggers, but some of the most common include:

• Pollen (hay fever)

• House dust mites

• Foods such as nuts, dairy, eggs, and shellfish

• Insect stings or bites

• Mould spores

• Pet dander

• Certain medications

• Latex

• Chemicals in cleaning products, cosmetics, or hair dye

Not everyone reacts to the same substances, and some people may develop allergies later in life even if they didn’t have them as children.

Getting Help and Managing Symptoms

If you think you may have an allergy, speak to your GP. They can help rule out other conditions and may recommend allergy testing or refer you to a specialist.

Management options can include:

• Avoiding the trigger wherever possible

• Taking antihistamines or other medications to ease symptoms

• Using creams or nasal sprays for skin or sinus-related issues

• Carrying an adrenaline auto-injector if you’re at risk of anaphylaxis

While most allergies can’t be “cured,” many can be well managed with the right advice and support.

Whether your allergy causes mild hay fever or something more serious, being aware of your symptoms and triggers is the first step to staying safe and comfortable. Avoiding allergens, knowing what to do in an emergency, and seeking advice from a healthcare professional can help you take control.

Our sources and for more information:

https://www.allergyuk.org/

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/allergies/