Allergen
An allergen is a harmless substance that causes an allergic reaction. Allergens include; pollen, pet hair, dust mites, food (e.g. fruit, nuts, milk and eggs), mould spores, medicine (penicillin) and insect bites/stings [1]. Those affected by allergens can develop an allergic reaction. Common symptoms of an allergic reaction may include: sneezing, a runny or blocked nose, dry and/or red skin, hives (red rash), wheezing, shortness of breath and a cough [2].
References
- ↑ NHS. (2012). Allergies -Causes. Available: http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Allergies/Pages/Causes.aspx. Last accessed 10th Dec 2012.
- ↑ http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Allergies/Pages/Symptoms.aspx