What is an allergic reaction?

Overreaction: An allergic reaction is an overreaction of the immune system by an allergic individual to a substance that is normally harmless. Reactions can include runny or stuffy nose (allergic rhinitis) wheezing and cough (asthma) or skin reactions like eczema or hive. ( a severe reaction can lead to difficult breathing, shock and even death in the case of anaphylaxis.).

A chemical reaction: An allergic reaction is when a trigger, either ingested or in the environment, causes the body to release histamine and leukotrienes. The reaction can be either local, like an insect bite or sting, or systemic (widespread throughout the body) such as what happens with ragweed.

An altered reaction: The roots of "allergy" are from greek "allos" (different) and "ergos" (action). So, an allergic reaction is a "different" (from normal) reaction. The reaction occurs to an allergen. An allergen can be a pollen (ragweed), food (peanut), animal (dust mite or bee venom), or other foreign substances. Symptoms occur due to histamine and other chemicals and cause sneezing, runny nose, etc.

Call your doctor: For mild symptoms i would call your doctor. If there symptoms are severe such as trouble breathing, throat closing, feeling faint you should call 911 and go to the emergency room.

Allergic reaction: Not sure if this is something in the past or recent. Any severe reaction with trouble breathing, throat closing or feeling faint is an emergency and you should call 911 to be taken to the er. For past reactions the treatment will vary according to symptoms and severity. See an allergist to determine the cause and nature of the problem and the best treatment.

Allergic Reaction?: Not sure what you mean by allergic reaction. If you are referring to anaphylaxis then epinephrine is the treatment of choice, call 911. Allergic rhinitis is treated with OTC antihistamines, daily intranasal steroid or antihistamine sprays, saline rinses, etc. Allergy shots also an option. Avoidance of triggers is important but see an Allergist first to determine exactly what you are allergic to.

Allergic reaction: If you are experiencing swelling of mouth, throat, tongue or face; are wheezing or having problems breathing - then you need emergency care.