The portal uses cookies to provide service functions such as “Bookmark” and to improve website usage. Information and opt-out options can be found in the cookie settings in the privacy policy.

Search

Allergies – when the body over-reacts

An allergy occurs when the body’s immune system is activated in reaction to a harmless foreign substance. The result is an overly sensitive immune response. Almost one in three people in Germany will have an allergy at some point in their lives. Apart from pollen, there are many other substances that can cause an allergic reaction.

What are the causes and symptoms of an allergy?

Substances that trigger allergies are called allergens. These are foreign substances which enter the body from the external environment.

There are different groups of allergens, for example:

Pollen season is hay fever season

From the time when trees and plants begin to bloom in the spring, many people suffer from hay fever – an allergic reaction of the upper airways to pollen. Hay fever is also known as seasonal allergic rhinitis.

Find out more about hay fever

Hay fever is very common. Learn more here about its symptoms, prevention, and treatment.

To the article

Insect bites can trigger nasty symptoms.

Although stings from bees and wasps are unpleasant, they are usually harmless. However, some people with an insect venom allergy will experience an overly sensitive immune response as a result of a sting. This can be life-threatening for some.

Find out more about insect venom allergies

Here you can find out how to avoid stings and what to do in the event of an allergic reaction to a sting.

To the article

Food allergies – not every intolerance is an allergy

In some cases, the body may react sensitively to certain types of food without an allergy being involved. A careful medical diagnosis is essential to ensure proper treatment of symptoms.

Find out more about food allergies

Here you can find out how to identify a food allergy and learn about possible triggers.

To the article

Eczema is a typical sign of a contact allergy

If contact with metal in jewelry, latex gloves, soap, deodorant, or cleaning products causes eczema on the skin, this may be due to a contact allergy, also known as allergic contact dermatitis. The allergy is often related to a person’s occupation.

Find out more about contact allergies

The article discusses possible symptoms and how they are treated.

To the article

Recommended articles

Climate change and pollen: why allergies are on the increase

Studies indicate an increase in allergic respiratory diseases due to climate change. The principal reason is the increase in the pollen count. Read more how allergies are connected to climate change.

Medication allergy

Medication can also have undesired effects. These side effects include allergic reactions.

Animal allergy

In an animal allergy it is not the fur that causes a reaction, but proteins that are found in the animal’s saliva, for instance. Avoiding contact with the animal can help, as can taking medication.