What is the difference between an allergy and intolerance?

Allergies and intolerances are both adverse reactions to substances, but they have different causes and symptoms.

Allergies are caused by the body's immune system overreacting to a foreign substance, such as pollen, dust, or food. When the body encounters an allergen, it produces antibodies that bind to the allergen and trigger the release of histamine and other inflammatory mediators. This can cause a variety of symptoms, including:

* Sneezing

* Runny nose

* Itchy eyes

* Watery eyes

* Congestion

* Wheezing

* Shortness of breath

* Hives

* Swelling

* Anaphylaxis

Intolerances are not caused by the immune system. They are caused by the body's inability to properly digest or metabolise certain substances. This can be due to a deficiency of an enzyme that is needed to break down the substance, or it can be due to a genetic mutation that affects how the body processes the substance.

Intolerances can cause a variety of symptoms, including:

* Bloating

* Gas

* Diarrhoea

* Constipation

* Abdominal pain

* Nausea

* Vomiting

* Headaches

* Fatigue

Allergies and intolerances can both be serious, but allergies can be more dangerous and even life-threatening. If you think you may be experiencing an allergy, especially from exposure of allergens like peanuts or other nuts, shellfish like crab, lobster and others or bee and wasp stings, it is important to see a doctor right away.