An allergy is an immune system overreaction to a normally harmless substance (allergen) — including pollen, foods, medications, insect venom, latex, or household chemicals. The immune system produces IgE antibodies against the allergen, triggering histamine release and the characteristic symptoms: sneezing, itching, hives, swelling, digestive symptoms, or — in severe cases — anaphylaxis. Allergies range from mild nuisance to life-threatening.

What is the difference between an allergy and a food intolerance?

An allergy involves an immune response — specifically IgE-mediated histamine release — and produces immediate, potentially serious reactions. A food intolerance is a non-immune digestive response (such as lactose intolerance or FODMAP sensitivity) producing delayed symptoms typically limited to the gut. Proper testing distinguishes the two — incorrectly managing a true allergy as an intolerance carries safety risks.

Can complementary approaches help manage allergies?

Acupuncture has evidence for reducing the severity of allergic rhinitis and urticaria. Nutritional approaches supporting gut barrier integrity and microbiome diversity are relevant to allergic sensitisation. Quercetin, vitamin C, and omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties. These complement rather than replace allergy management and should never substitute for epinephrine autoinjectors where anaphylaxis risk is present.

When is an allergy an emergency?

Anaphylaxis — involving rapidly progressing throat swelling, difficulty breathing, severe drop in blood pressure, or loss of consciousness — is a life-threatening emergency. Call 999 immediately and administer epinephrine (adrenaline) if an auto-injector is available. Anyone with a diagnosed anaphylactic allergy should carry two epinephrine auto-injectors at all times and have a written anaphylaxis action plan.

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Allergies

Allergies involve an exaggerated immune response to normally harmless substances, causing a wide range of symptoms from mild sneezing to severe reactions. Functional approaches address immune regulation, gut microbiome b

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Reviewed by Dr. Ciara Magee · Integrative Midwifery26 March 2026Emerging evidence

Quick answer

Do any of these feel familiar?

Allergies are most commonly experienced as an exaggerated immune response to otherwise harmless substances — pollen, dust mites, pet dander, foods, or insect stings
Symptoms vary by trigger: nasal congestion, sneezing, and itchy watery eyes are characteristic of hay fever; hives, swelling, and breathing difficulties may accompany food or venom allergies
Many people describe the cumulative fatigue of managing symptoms daily during allergy season as deeply disruptive to concentration, sleep, and quality of life
Severe allergies bring an added dimension of vigilance and fear — particularly the threat of anaphylaxis — which requires constant alertness and planning around food, environments, and medication access