M. Čamernik
Služba za alergologijo, revmatologijo in klinično imunologijo, Pediatrična klinika, Univerzitetni klinični center Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenija

I. Kučinič
Služba za alergologijo, revmatologijo in klinično imunologijo, Univerzitetni klinični center Ljubljana, Pediatrična klinika, Ljubljana, Slovenija

Abstract

There has been a significant increase in allergic diseases in the past few years. They affect 20–30% of the population. In most cases their onset is in adolescence or even in early childhood. Over the years most allergies mitigate or even disappear. However, some are persistent or even lifelong. Allergic reactions can be caused by direct contact with an allergen or allergens (ingested or inhaled). So-called allergy triggers, including smoke, cosmetic products, emotional shocks and physical strain, can also provoke allergy symptoms.

Key words: allergic reaction, allergen, allergy triggers.