Allergies

Some of the most common allergies include:

• Hay fever (tree and grass pollen)
• Dust mites
• Food allergies
• Animal allergies
• Skin allergies
• Bites and stings

Read more about the different types of allergies here, including signs and symptoms and how to manage them.

If you suspect your or someone you know may have an allergy, the first step of diagnosis is to visit your GP. They may arrange some allergy tests or refer you to an allergy clinic. Some tests they may carry out include:

• Blood tests
• A skin prick test, where a small amount of the suspected allergen is placed on your skin and a tiny prick is made to check for a reaction
• A specific diet, where you are given small amounts of the suspected food you are allergic to, to check for a reaction

Whilst you are awaiting a diagnosis, it’s important to avoid the thing you suspect you are allergic to wherever possible, unless advised by a healthcare professional under their supervision. Keep at-home treatments at hand like antihistamines, nasal sprays or creams in case a reaction occurs.

Yes, you can develop allergies at any time, even in adulthood. This is because of changes to your immune system or environmental factors. It is possible for you to become allergic to something you were once not, so it is important to speak to your GP if you notice any changes in reactions to allergens to help you manage symptoms effectively.