What Is Poison Ivy? Leaves of three, let them be! You’ve probably heard that little rhyme about poison ivy. But did you know that the plants poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac all contain the same rash-causing substance? It’s called urushiol (pronounced: yoo-ROO-shee-ol), a colorless, odorless oil (called resin) found in their leaves. What Are the …
What Are Peanut and Tree Nut Allergies? Peanuts are among the most common allergy-causing foods, and they often find their way into things you wouldn’t expect. Take chili, for example: It may be thickened with ground peanuts. Peanuts aren’t actually a true nut; they’re a legume (in the same family as peas and lentils). But …
My girlfriend has a peanut allergy. I’ve heard stories about how people can die after being kissed by someone who just ate nuts. Do I have to worry about kissing her? – Kevin* The stories you’ve heard do happen, but are very rare. If you take some simple precautions, you and your girlfriend can kiss with …
My Girlfriend Has a Peanut Allergy. Do We Have to Worry About Kissing? Read More »
Food allergies are common, and most of us know someone with an allergy. The most common food allergies are to peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, soy, wheat, fish, and shellfish. But other foods can also cause serious allergic reactions. A food that can cause a reaction in a person is called an allergen. The tricky …
What Is a Milk Allergy? When someone has a milk allergy, the body’s immune system, which normally fights infections, overreacts to proteins in milk. If the person drinks or eats a product that contains milk, the body thinks these proteins are harmful invaders. The immune system responds by working very hard to fight off the …
How Can I Deal With My Asthma? The best way to manage asthma is to follow an asthma action plan. Your doctor will give you a plan designed just for you. Doing everything on the plan — even when you feel well — will help prevent flare-ups and keep you out of the ER. Ways to Breathe Better …
What Are Hives? Hives are red raised bumps or welts on the skin. Hives (or urticaria) is a common skin reaction to something like an allergen (a substance that causes allergies). The spots can appear anywhere on the body and can look like tiny little spots, blotches, or large connected bumps. Individual hives can last anywhere from …
If you have a food allergy, your doctor will tell you how to avoid an allergic reaction. Here are some general tips on living with food allergies. How Do I Avoid an Allergic Reaction? The only real way to prevent a reaction is to completely avoid foods you’re allergic to. Eating even a tiny bit of …
Planning a trip can be stressful for anyone. People with food allergies may feel extra anxious about leaving their familiar home environments. But with planning and preparation, you can enjoy traveling while staying safe. How Can I Prepare for Travel? Perhaps the best way to boost confidence and calm nerves is to research and plan …
What Are Food Allergies? Milk, eggs, soy, wheat, tree nuts, peanuts, fish, and shellfish are among the most common foods that cause allergies. Young kids who have food allergies often outgrow their allergy — but not always. A lot depends on which foods someone is allergic to. Some foods are easier to outgrow than others. Fish …
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