Pregnancy Resources

MacDonald BabyAs the arrival of your baby nears, you no doubt have many questions about giving birth and taking care of your baby once you’re home.

How do you make arrangements to deliver at MacDonald Women’s Hospital? What happens if your baby needs special attention after delivery? How do you choose a doctor for the baby?

We want to give you the answers that will bring you peace of mind as you prepare to give birth. Then, when the time comes to deliver at MacDonald Women’s Hospital, you can be assured that you and your baby will receive excellent care with a compassionate touch.
Health Encyclopedia

Allergen

Positive reaction to allergen
Positive reaction to allergen

Definition

  

An allergen is a substance that can cause an allergic reaction. Allergens are substances that, in some people, the immune system recognizes as "foreign" or "dangerous" but cause no response for most people.


Information

  

Common allergens include:

  • Bacteria, viruses, and animal parasites
  • Chemicals
  • Dust
  • Drugs (such as antibiotics, serums)
  • Foods (such as milk, chocolate, strawberries, wheat)
  • Perfumes
  • Plants
  • Pollen
  • Smoke

See also:


 
Review Date: 2/15/2007
Reviewd By: Donald Accetta, MD, MPH, President, Allergy & Asthma Care, PC, Taunton, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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