• runny nose (rhinitis)
• tearing, increased
• itching of the nose, mouth, eyes, throat, skin, or any area
• clear thin watery mucus from nose, may appear suddenly
• sneezing
• sneezing fits (more than three sneezes in a row, happens repeatedly)
• wheezing
• coughing
• difficulty breathing
• skin redness
• redness of the sclera (white of the eyes)
• hives
• skin rashes
• headaches

• An elevated antibody (particularly IgE) level indicates that the body has developed an allergic immune response.

• Skin testing is the most common and useful method of allergy testing. This may include intradermal, scratch, patch, or other tests.
• RAST (blood test for antibody (IgE) to specific allergen)
• Occasionally, the suspected allergen is dissolved and dropped onto the lining of the lower eyelid (conjunctiva) as a means of testing for allergies.
• Other testing to determine the specific allergen may include various types of "use" or "elimination" tests where suspected items are eliminated and/or introduced while the person is observed for response to the substance.

• a WBC count, particularly eosinophil count
• immunoelectrophoresis - serum

The goal is to reduce allergy symptoms caused by inflammation of affected tissues.

The best "treatment" is to avoid what causes your allergies in the first place. (See Prevention.) It may be impossible to completely avoid everything you are allergic to, but you can often take steps to reduce your exposure.

Medication options include the following:

• Short-acting antihistamines, which are generally non-prescription, often relieve mild to moderate symptoms but can cause drowsiness. In addition, these antihistamines can blunt learning in children (even in the absence of drowsiness). An example is diphenhydramine (Benedryl).
• Longer-acting antihistamines cause less drowsiness and can be equally effective, and usually do not interfere with learning. These medications, which require a prescription, include fexofenadine (Allegra), cetirizine (Zyrtec), and loratadine (Claritin).
• For people with symptoms not relieved by antihistamines alone, nasal corticosteroid sprays are very effective and safe. These prescription medications include fluticasone (Flonase), mometasone (Nasonex), and triamcinolone (Nasacort AQ).
• Decongestants may also be helpful in reducing symptoms such as nasal congestion, but should not be used for long periods.
• Cromolyn sodium is available as a nasal spray (Nasalcrom) for treating hay fever. Eye drop versions of cromolyn sodium and antihistamines are available for itchybloodshot eyes.

The most appropriate medication depends on the type and severity of symptoms. Specific illnesses that are caused by allergies (such as asthma, hay fever, and eczema) may require other treatments.

Allergy shots (immunotherapy) is occasionally recommended if the allergen cannot be avoided and symptoms are hard to control. It includes regular injections of the allergen, given in increasing doses (each dose is slightly larger than the previous dose) that may help the body adjust to the antigen.

• anaphylaxis (life-threatening allergic reaction)
• discomfort during the allergic reaction
• increased incidence of ear infection (otitis media) in children
• chronic mouth breathing with resultant facial changes (children only)
• disruption of lifestyle
• drowsiness and other side effects of antihistamines
• side effects of other medications (See the specific medication.)

Breastfeeding can be effective at preventing and decreasing allergies. There is also evidence that exposures to certain allergens in the first year of life may prevent some allergies. This is called the "hygiene hypothesis" and sprang from observations that infants on farms tend to have fewer allergies than those in environments that are more sterile. Once allergies have developed, avoiding known allergens may decrease symptoms and prevent other allergies.

Mold spores are everywhere. Minimize exposure by keeping rooms dry (using a dehumidifier if neccessary). Discard moldy or mildewed articles (books, toys, shoes, and so on). Use synthetic fabrics for clothing and household furnishings whenever possible. Disinfect bathrooms, basement walls, and furniture with diluted bleach or other appropriate disinfectant solution.

Clean frequently to minimize dust. Vacuum frequently, preferably using a small-pore filter to capture dust mites. Damp-mop and dust often. Eliminate as many "dust catchers" as possible, including rugs, bed ruffles or canopies, and curtains. Bedding and mattresses harbor dust mites, and special covers for mattresses, box springs, and pillows reduce dust mite allergen. Wash rugs, bedding, and furniture coverings weekly if possible. Central heating and air-conditioning systems may be helpful, particularly if they include special filters to capture dust.

People who are allergic to animals may need to avoid keeping pets. Frequent bathing and grooming of the pet (preferably by someone who is not allergic to the animal) may help. Allergy to animals may also include wool, which may contain tiny amounts of dander (skin).

Avoid other irritants whenever possible.