Millions of people who suffer from allergies have learnt to simply 'put up with it' and tread water until their next miserable bout. If you are one of the lucky few with no tell-tale allergies don't think you are fancy free just yet.

Allergies can strike at any age and the body can never be fully immune to their onset. It's important for people to know how to identify what an allergic reaction is and how to cope in these situations especially when traveling into unknown places.

Sudden allergic reactions in children, who are the most susceptible group, should be carefully monitored.

"While most seasonal allergies associated with hay fever are pretty harmless there are more serious seasonal allergies which can be fatal, such as insect allergies to bees, heat/sun allergies (although true heat allergies are extremely rare) and asthma," says Willie Jordaan, head of professional services at Clicks.

With seasonal allergies comes hay fever, one of our most prominent allergies in South Africa. It's also known as allergic rhinitis or allergic sinusitis depending on where the inflammation is situated.

Other forms of seasonal allergies occur in the eyes and are called allergic or vernal conjunctivitis. Symptoms can also be seen on the skin in the form of skin rashes such as hives.

Tell-tale signs

About allergies

"Often allergies are hereditary although most often it is the environment that puts them into motion," says Jordaan.

"Hay fever related allergies often signal a weakened immune system and are in effect an inflammation. Omega 3 oils and other essential oils with an extra dose of Vitamin C, Vitamin B5 and Zinc picolinate are great for boosting the immune system and fighting inflammations," says Jordaan.

Allergies are most commonly treated with antihistamines, steroids, decongestants, topical skin creams or ointment. Allergy injections can be used and in the case of an infection, antibiotics are necessary.

Dietary habits also come into the equation. You should reduce red meat intake and increase your child's fish intake especially oily fish. Feed them lots of pineapple, papaya and pressed flax seeds.

How to minimise allergies:

If going on holiday by car, travel with the windows closed and the air conditioner on as that will filter the air.

Try to avoid staying anywhere with a thatched roof.

Wash your or your child's hair frequently as pollen can get trapped in it.

Wash your and your child's hands frequently.

Don't over expose yourself or your child to allergens in the hope of making them immune as this will not help. Rather boost their immune system and keep them away from objects that attract allergens.