Allergies and intolerances
If you'd like to discuss any worries or symptoms related to an allergy or intolerance, a Livi GP can help.
Book appointment
What are allergies and intolerances?
An allergy is when your immune system reacts to something that’s normally harmless, like food or pollen. An intolerance is having difficulty digesting certain foods and getting unpleasant physical symptoms when you eat them.
For most people, allergens do no harm, but if you’re allergic, your immune system identifies the substance as a threat and attacks it. This leads to symptoms ranging from minor itchiness to anaphylaxis, which needs immediate care.
Search a symptom or condition
Allergies
Allergies are common and can be mild or very serious. Discover the causes, symptoms and treatments for allergies.
Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis is a dangerous reaction to an allergen that can be life-threatening if not treated quickly. Learn what to do in case of anaphylaxis.
Coeliac disease
Coeliac disease is a condition where your immune system attacks the tissue in your gut when you eat gluten. The reaction can cause a range of stomach problems, like cramps, bloating, constipation and diarrhoea. Read more about the symptoms and how to treat them.
Hay fever
Hay fever affects many people in the spring and summertime. Discover the causes, symptoms and treatments for hay fever.
Lactose intolerance
People with lactose intolerance don’t produce enough of the enzyme lactase. This means their body is unable to break down and absorb lactose, a sugar found in dairy-based food. Lactose remains in the digestive system, and is fermented by bacteria. This leads to a build up of gases, which can cause painful bloating and other symptoms.