An allergy is what happens when your body reacts strongly to something that is usually harmless! Things like pollen from flowers, certain foods like peanuts, or even pet fur can cause allergies. Not everyone has allergies, and different people can be allergic to different things.
When you come in contact with something you are allergic to, your body overreacts. You might sneeze a lot, get itchy skin, or have a runny nose. Some allergies can make your eyes water or give you a rash on your skin.
If you have allergies, a doctor can help figure out what causes them and how to feel better. Some kids take medicine that a grownup gives them to help with allergy symptoms. Other kids learn to stay away from the things that bother them!
- Having allergies does not mean anything is wrong with you — it just means your body works a little differently!
- About 1 in 4 people have some kind of allergy.
- Scientists are still learning why some people have allergies and others do not!
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