Could It Be Seasonal Allergies?

A runny nose, sneezing, or itching may raise allergy questions, but symptoms alone cannot identify their cause.

How Allergies Begin

An allergy occurs when the immune system reacts to something that does not bother most other people.

Pollen Is One Trigger

Pollen can trigger an allergic reaction, but dust mites, mold spores, pet dander, food, insect stings, and medicines can, too.

Symptoms Can Vary

Allergy symptoms may include a runny nose, sneezing, itching, rashes, swelling, or asthma, and can range from minor to severe.

Testing Helps Identify Allergies

Doctors use skin and blood tests to diagnose allergies; a symptom list cannot confirm pollen as the cause.

Management Has Several Approaches

MedlinePlus describes medicines, allergy shots, and avoiding substances that cause reactions as broad treatment approaches, not a plan for everyone.

Allergies Aren't Always Mild

MedlinePlus identifies anaphylaxis as a severe allergic reaction that can be life-threatening, so allergies are not always mild.