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allergy
A disorder in which the body mounts a hypersensitive reaction to one or more substances, called allergens, not normally considered harmful. Common allergens include pollen, animal hair, fungi, dust, and occasionally foods and some drugs, such as penicillin. Typical allergic reactions are sneezing (hay fever), wheezing and difficulty in breathing (asthma), and skin eruptions and itching (eczema). A tendency to allergic reaction is often hereditary. Treatment usually requires the identification of the allergen and its avoidance if possible, or a course of desensitization. Drugs can be useful in relieving acute symptoms.
Related category
• HEALTH AND DISEASE
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