“If it comes from a plant, eat it. If it was made in a plant, don’t!” Michael Pollan An allergy is when your immune system reacts to an allergen. The type of reaction that occurs can vary from mild to severe. Some of the most common allergies are nuts, pollen, and pets. Reporters on Express Yourself!™ Teen Radio, Nihal and Kirpa Gill, provide information on allergies for both humans and pets. Allergies result from an overreaction of the immune system. The immune system has one very important job where it protects the body from viruses and other illnesses. Some common symptoms of allergies inhumans include allergies from dust, pollen, pet dander, certain foods, such as eggs and nuts, bee venom, medications, and latex. In pets, allergies include pollen, mold spores, dust mites, and insect venom. You can tell if a pet has an allergy because the animal reacts the same way as humans with hives, itching, swelling, redness, etc. To identify the cause of an allergic reaction in humans, it is helpful to keep a food diary and work with a doctor. Anyone with a food allergy needs to take care to avoid the trigger food. If a severe reaction is likely, it is recommended carrying an epinephrine auto-injector. For pets, make an appointment with a veterinarian for care and treatment. Allergies cannot be cured, but the synonyms and reactions you have can be maintained. Be diligent! • Follow us: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio • https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ • https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/