Allergy is when the body's immune system overreacts when exposed to substances such as dust, pollen, animal hair or metals. Millions of people across Europe are affected. The pharmaceutical industry is researching the complex nature of allergy in order to develop medicines to relieve the misery it causes.
Disease: Allergy
Last update: July 2009
Intro
FAQ
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What is it?
Allergy is when the body'ss immune system overreacts when exposed to substances called allergens. Common allergens are dust mites, pollen, pet hairs, insect stings, certain metals and some drugs. Common reactions include hay fever, asthma, inflammation of the lining of the eyes or nose, itching and eczema. Severe allergic reactions can be dangerous, even fatal. -
Who gets it?
Currently in Europe, more than 25 million people are affected. This number is growing steadily. -
What can be done about it?
'Vaccination' with purified allergens can be used to make people less sensitive to the allergen. Common medicines that are used are antihistamines, decongestants and corticosteroids. Some medicines help relieve the symptoms but others are needed that address the underlying biology. -
What does the future hold?
Research is underway into ways of modifying the complex reactions of the immune system to prevent the allergic response. Safer compounds to treat eczema in young children are being investigated as are ways of blocking immunoglobulin E, the principal protein involved in allergy. New strategies for 'vaccination' with carefully modied allergens are also being examined.
Untangling the complexities of the allergic response should lead to more effective, safer medicines and reduce the misery and danger posed by allergy.