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Allergies, blood and immune system

Of all the invisible medical conditions you can be affected by, allergies such as hay fever or a food intolerance can be the hardest to live with. It's all linked to your immune system, and we've got lots of expert insight to help you understand how the body's natural defence mechanism works.

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Sick unhealthy allergic man has red watery eyes, runny stuffy sore nose suffering from allergy trigger symptoms with paper napkin handkerchief isolated on pastel pink colour background.

Allergies, blood and immune system

Hay fever

by Dr Doug McKechnie, MRCGP

Overflowing medicine bottle with scattered pills against a green background.

Allergies, blood and immune system

Immunosuppression

by Dr Philippa Vincent, MRCGP

Vials of blood with blank labels against yellow/orange background.

Allergies, blood and immune system

Anaemia

by Dr Hayley Willacy, FRCGP

Overturned medicine bottle with scattered folic acid tablets against a pale pink background.

Allergies, blood and immune system

Folic acid deficiency

by Dr Rosalyn Adleman, MRCGP

Allergies

Itchy eyes, sneezing, or hives? Allergies can affect your daily life in unexpected ways. Find out what triggers them and how to manage your symptoms.

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Food allergy and intolerance

A food allergy is an immune system reaction that can be life-threatening. A food intolerance is a digestive issue that is uncomfortable but generally not dangerous. Understanding the difference is vital for your health, safety, and daily management.

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Anaemia

Anaemia is a condition where you lack enough healthy red blood cells or haemoglobin to carry sufficient oxygen to your body's tissues. Often causing fatigue, weakness, and pale skin, it ranges from mild to severe and is typically diagnosed with a simple blood test.

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Blood cancers

Leukaemia, lymphoma and other blood cancers affect the body’s cells. Learn about symptoms, diagnosis and how treatment options have improved survival rates.

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Blood disorders

Blood disorders are conditions that prevent your red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, or clotting proteins from functioning properly. If you suspect a blood disorder, start by consulting a GP who will review your symptoms and order necessary blood tests.

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Blood tests

Blood tests can detect infections, monitor conditions, or check overall health. Learn how they’re done, what they can show, and what to expect.

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Immune system disorders

Immune system disorders occur when your body's defence system malfunctions. This causes the body to either mistakenly attack its own healthy tissues (autoimmune diseases) or fail to defend against infections (immunodeficiencies).

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