Allergies

An allergy is where your body reacts to a particular food or substance, known as an allergen.

Allergic reactions usually happen quickly when the body is exposed to an allergen. In most cases, symptoms are mild, although for some people they can be very serious.

Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction. It is a medical emergency and needs to be treated quickly. If you have a serious allergy, you might be given an adrenaline auto-injector. You should carry this with you at all times, as it can stop an allergic reaction becoming life-threatening.

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All You Need to Know

Allergens are things which cause an allergic reaction. Some common examples include:
- Tree and grass pollen (hay fever)
- House dust mites
- Foods, such as peanuts, milk and eggs (food allergy)
- Animal fur, particularly from pets like cats and dogs
- Insect stings, such as bee and wasp stings
- Certain medicines.
Symptoms of an allergic reaction include:
- Runny nose or sneezing
- Pain or tenderness around your cheeks, eyes or forehead
- Coughing, wheezing or breathlessness
- Itchy skin or a raised rash (hives)
- Diarrhoea
- Feeling or being sick
- Swollen eyes, lips, mouth or throat.
If you think you have suffered an allergic reaction, you should see your GP. They will be able to tell if you have an allergy and what treatment you need to manage the condition. If your allergy is serious, you might be referred to a specialist.

Keep a record of your symptoms, when and where they happen and if you think there is a particular food or drink that brings on your symptoms.

If you know what the allergen is, avoid it wherever possible to reduce the risk of a reaction.
Treatments for mild allergic reactions include antihistamines, steroid tablets and steroid creams. Severe allergic reactions can be treated with an adrenaline auto-injector.

Another possible treatment for severe reactions is immunotherapy, or desensitisation. This involves carefully exposing you to the thing you're allergic to over time, so your body gradually gets used to it and does not react so badly (this should only be done by a medical professional).

Who Can Help?

If you are worried that you may have had a minor allergic reaction or have reoccurring allergies, you should visit a pharmacist for advice. You can also talk to your parents or carers, or a trusted adult within your school or setting, or any trusted friend.

If you live in Norfolk:

If you're 11-19 you can text ChatHealth on 07480 635060 for anonymous and confidential advice from a health professional. ChatHealth is available Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm.

You can also contact the Norfolk Healthy Child Service by calling Just One Number on 0300 300 0123. Our opening hours are 8am-6pm Monday-Friday (excluding bank holidays) and 9am-1pm on Saturdays.

If you live in Waveney:

You can call the Suffolk School Nursing service on 0345 607 8866 or email childrenshealth@suffolk.gov.uk.

Allergy UK for help and advice or information. Call the helpline on 01322 619898 – they can advise on your nearest NHS allergy clinic or consultant.

Childline - Children and young people under 19 can call 0800 1111 for free support.

Kooth offers online counselling, advice and emotional well-being support for 10 to 18-year-olds, seven days a week until 10pm.