Glossary of terms

allergic rhinitis (also called hay fever)

an inflammation of the mucous membrane that lines the nose, often due to allergy to pollen, dust, or other airborne substances. Rhinitis causes sneezing, itching, a runny nose, and nasal congestion.

See also Allergic rhinitisEar, nose and throat (Otolaryngology)

anaphylaxis (also called anaphylactic shock)

a sudden, severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction caused by food allergies, insect stings, or medications. Symptoms may include hives, swelling (especially of the lips and face), difficulty breathing (either because of swelling in the throat or an asthmatic reaction), vomiting, diarrhea, cramping, and a drop in blood pressure.

See also Critical care (Pediatric Intensive Care Unit)Emergency medicineViolent and unintentional injuries, food allergy and anaphylaxisBryan's bout with food allergies

angioedema

a skin condition that causes larger areas of swelling than occurs in hives

asthma

a chronic, inflammatory lung disease characterized by recurrent breathing problems usually triggered by allergens

See also Critical care (Pediatric Intensive Care Unit)Pulmonary medicineSigns and symptoms of asthmaTreatment for asthmaUnderstanding childhood asthmaWarning signs that asthma is not under control

drug allergies

abnormal reactions to a medicine that is triggered by the immune system

food allergies

an abnormal reaction to food that is triggered by the immune system

See also Food allergyNew research study seeks hope
for children with food allergies
Violent and unintentional injuries, food allergy and anaphylaxisBryan's bout with food allergies

hay fever (also called allergic rhinitis)

an inflammation of the mucous membrane that lines the nose, often due to allergy to pollen, dust, or other airborne substances. Rhinitis causes sneezing, itching, a runny nose, and nasal congestion.

hives (also called urticaria)

a condition in which red, itchy, and swollen areas appear on the skin usually as an allergic reaction from eating certain foods or taking certain medications

sinusitis

an infection that seems like a cold but lasts much longer