AERIUS^® - Avoid Morning Allergies.

About Allergies

Allergic reactions are common and can be one of the most frustrating conditions to live with. Though 1 in 5 Australians are affected by allergies at some point in their lives, many are unaware that they are suffering from an allergy. Common symptoms - like sneezing, stuffed or runny noses and sore, itchy eyes - can often be mistaken for a cold.

• What is an allergy?
• What triggers an allergy?
• What happens during an allergic reaction?
• Identify your allergies

What is an allergy?

An allergy or allergic reaction happens when the body’s immune system over-reacts to an external substance that would generally be considered harmless.

The immune system is designed to protect your body from foreign invaders that can cause damage. When a foreign substance like a virus enters the body, the immune system launches into action to help fight off the infection. When the immune system over-reacts to typically harmless foreign substances (called allergens), we call this an allergy.

A substance that is an allergen for one person may not be for another, as everyone reacts differently. The likelihood of developing allergies is increased if other family members suffer from allergy or asthma.

Common allergens include:

• dust and dust-mites
• air-borne pollen and grasses
• animal dander particularly from cats and dogs
• household moulds
• foods – commonly peanuts, shellfish, dairy and wheat

What triggers an allergy?

An allergy attack occurs when an allergen enters the body. Once in the body, the allergen triggers the immune cascade that releases histamine, resulting in allergic symptoms. Allergens reach the body through inhalation, injection, ingestion or contact. Common allergens include:

• Air-borne pollen causing hay fever
• Allergies from pets and animals
• Dust-mite allergies
• Allergies to household mould

What happens during an allergic reaction?

When an allergen enters the body it triggers an antibody response, known as the immune cascade. The antibodies attach themselves to special cells called mast cells. In response, the mast cells release certain substances, one of which is histamine.

Histamine is targeted in the treatment of allergic reactions because it is the major cause of the two main allergic symptoms. Firstly, it charges an inflammatory response and secondly it causes smooth muscle to constrict, which results in obvious symptoms like:

• Runny nose and sneezing
• Watery and itchy eyes
• Itchy skin, breakouts and/or hives