The allergen (the offending cause) can run from ragweed (an inhalant) to food, such as strawberries (an ingestant). Along with the respiratory system, the eyes, and the gastrointestinal tract, the skin, a prime responder to allergens, can react to an allergic substance in several clearly defined ways.

A person suffering from one allergy may develop multiple allergies. A hay fever sufferer, for example, is more vulnerable to other allergenic inhalants than the average individual. He must therefore be more alert and take more elaborate precautions, such as avoiding many kinds of pollinating flowers in his home, particularly in his bedroom, keeping his living quarters free of such dust gatherers as curtains, rugs, and pictures. All blankets and pillows should be of cotton or synthetics-no feathers or goose down. Wherever possible, all pets and animals should be kept at a respectful distance and certainly out of the sleeping quarters.

An allergic patient must always advise his physician of his allergies so that he will be guided in the administration of any drug. He should always wear a wristband or other identification with this allergic information written on it in case of accident. It can save his life.