WPSU’s Health Minute is a collaboration with Penn State’s Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing.
According to the Mayo Clinic, “Allergies occur when your immune system reacts to a foreign substance — such as pollen, bee venom or pet dander — or a food that doesn't cause a reaction in most people.” When you come into contact with an allergen, it can result in the swelling of your skin, airways, or even your digestive tract. Reactions can range from mild itching to severe difficulty breathing. You might be more likely to develop an allergy if you have a family history of asthma or allergies.
See your doctor if you have symptoms you think could be caused by an allergy.
For more information on allergens and pollen, visit the climate and health webpage at cdc.gov.