... rhinitis (hay fever), sinusitis, conjunctivitis, asthma, atopic dermatitis, and anaphylaxis, and allergy triggers such as pollen, mold, dust mites, animal dander, chemicals, foods and additives, and medications ; along with facts about allergy diagnosis and treatment, tips on avoiding triggers and preventing symptoms, a glossary of related terms, and directories of resources for additional help.

Includes bibliographical references and index.

Part I: Introduction to allergies and the immune system. Understanding the immune system and allergic reactions -- How allergies develop -- Allergens and breathing problems -- Allergies in children -- Part II: Types of allergic reactions. Allergic rhinitis (hay fever) -- Sinusitis -- Conjunctivitis (pink eye) -- Allergic asthma -- Atopic dermatitis (eczema) -- Allergic contact dermatitis -- Other allergic skin reactions -- Anaphylaxis: life-threatening allergies -- Part III: Foods and food additives that trigger allergic reactions. Food allergy: an overview -- Food allergy or food intolerance: how do you tell the difference? -- Milk allergy -- Egg allergy -- Seafood allergy -- Peanut and tree nut allergy -- Wheat allergy -- Soy allergy -- Ingredients and food additives that trigger reactions -- Other health problems related to food allergic reactions -- Advice for consumers about food labels -- Tips on avoiding food allergy reactions -- Part IV: Airborne, chemical, and other environmental allergy triggers. Overview of airborne allergens -- Pollen allergy -- Household allergens: animal dander, cockroach, dust mite, hair dye, and mold allergy -- Air quality and your health -- Climate change and respiratory allergies -- Smoking -- Multiple chemical sensitivity -- Lanolin allergy -- Sick building syndrome -- Insect sting allergy -- Allergies to medicines and medical products --

Part V: Diagnosing and treating allergies. When you should see an allergist -- Cold, flu, or allergy? -- Health insurance issues for people with allergies and asthma -- Allergy tests -- Lung function tests -- Allergy medications and therapies -- Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) for allergies -- Part VI: Avoiding allergy triggers and preventing symptoms. A guide to indoor air quality -- Improving indoor air quality and reducing environmental triggers -- Guide to air cleaners in the house -- Cleaning up mold in your home -- Asthma and physical activity in school settings -- Controlling seasonal allergies -- Preventing allergy symptoms during travel -- Preventing food allergies during pregnancy/breastfeeding -- Avoiding skin allergies: choosing safe cosmetics -- Part VII: Additional help and information. Glossary of terms related to allergies and the immune system -- Directory of organizations that provide information about allergies -- Directory of websites for people with food allergies.