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Allergy 

Allergy
Chapter:
Allergy
Author(s):

Pamela Ewan

DOI:
10.1093/med/9780198746690.003.0042
Page of

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date: 27 February 2021

Allergy is common and becoming commoner: it now affects about one-third of the UK population. This is being driven by environmental changes, which are also leading to an increase in both the complexity and severity of the condition. In addition to the traditional allergic disorders—asthma, rhinitis, and eczema—multisystem allergic disease and reactivity to several allergens are now common; new allergies have appeared, including those due to foods, drugs, and diagnostic agents; and anaphylaxis is increasing. In contrast, new cases of latex allergy have become uncommon. Where possible, patients with significant allergy should be referred to an allergy specialist who can provide expertise not offered by—and complementary to—that of other specialties. Identifying and managing allergic causes of disease leads to reduction or resolution of its manifestations.

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