Glossary

Allergy - Inappropriate or exaggerated reactions of the immune system to substances that, in the majority of people, cause no symptoms

Antigen - An antigen is a substance that can trigger an immune response, resulting in production of an antibody as part of the body's defense against infection and disease.

Atopic - A tendency to allergies which often runs in families

Bronchodilator - A type of medication that relaxes the muscles surrounding the airways. It helps breathing and relieves asthma symptoms.

Eczema - A skin condition that causes areas of the skin to become red, itchy and scaly.

Peak Flow Meter - A portable, hand-held device that measures how fast a person can exhale in litres per minute (lpm). Can be useful for monitoring a person's asthma.

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