Allergy: what it is and how we help

Allergies at a glance

An allergy is an immune reaction to something that is usually harmless, such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander or certain foods. Around one in four people in the UK have an allergy. Hay fever is the most common, and most allergies can be managed well with avoidance, medication and, for some, specialist treatment. Severe reactions need an emergency plan.

Common allergy symptoms

• Sneezing, a runny or blocked nose and itchy eyes (hay fever)
• Itchy skin, hives or eczema flares
• Coughing and wheezing
• Tummy pain, vomiting or diarrhoea after certain foods
• Swelling of the lips or face

How are allergies diagnosed and treated?

Your GP can help identify triggers and may refer you for skin prick or blood tests. Treatment includes antihistamines, steroid nasal sprays and, for some, immunotherapy through an allergy clinic. People with severe allergies are prescribed adrenaline auto-injectors.

How we support allergies in Chiswick

• Acupuncture: several trials suggest it may reduce hay fever symptoms for some people, alongside usual medication.
• Ayurveda: seasonal routines and diet guidance, with care around herbal products if you have allergies.
• Blood tests: general health markers; specific allergy testing is best arranged through your GP or an allergy clinic.
• Yoga and breathing: for stress, which can worsen skin and airway symptoms.

What does the evidence say?

Antihistamines and steroid nasal sprays are effective first-line treatments. A number of trials report reduced hay fever symptoms with acupuncture, though results vary. We are clear that emergency and medical treatment always comes first for serious allergies.

Allergy or intolerance?

An allergy involves the immune system and can cause reactions within minutes, such as hives, swelling, wheezing and, rarely, anaphylaxis. A food intolerance, such as lactose intolerance, does not involve the immune system; symptoms are usually digestive, slower to appear and not dangerous. The difference matters for how strictly a food needs to be avoided.

Can you develop allergies as an adult?

Yes. Allergies can start at any age, including hay fever, food allergies such as shellfish and allergies to medicines. Some childhood allergies, such as egg and milk, are often outgrown, while others, such as peanut and tree nut allergies, usually persist.

Are home allergy tests reliable?

Many direct-to-consumer tests, particularly IgG food intolerance tests, are not recommended by UK allergy specialists, because they do not diagnose allergy and can lead to unnecessary food restriction. Reliable testing uses skin prick or specific IgE blood tests interpreted alongside your history, usually through your GP or an allergy clinic.

What to expect at Omnia

We take a detailed history of your symptoms, triggers, seasons and medication, and check for any warning signs that need your GP or an allergy clinic. For hay fever and other seasonal symptoms, acupuncture can be timed before and during the pollen season, alongside your usual treatment. We are always clear that serious allergies need a medical plan.

What you can do at home

• Check the pollen forecast and keep windows closed on high days
• Shower and change clothes after being outside
• Wash bedding weekly at 60 degrees for dust mite allergy
• Carry your medication and allergy plan

For fast relief and pollen season dates, see our guide to how to stop hay fever fast.

Related: asthma. Omnia Lifestyle, Chiswick W4. Book online or call 020 4515 0000.