A common sound echoed through the halls here at OHS is the common cough, no matter what season it is this is a common sound that is heard. This is in part due to allergies. Allergies are a heightened sensitivity to a foreign substance (called an allergen) that causes the body’s defense system (the immune system) to overreact when defending itself. Some common signs of allergies are, bad runny noses, bad coughs, watery eyes, stomach aches, itchy skin, hives, fatigue and irritability

Allergies are not just one substance with one effect. It could affect people in many ways like being allergic to milk and other dairy products, eggs, wheat, soy, peanuts, tree nuts and seafood. According to Web MD, “The most allergenic substances in the world are pollen, dust mites, mold, animal dander, insect stings, latex,  certain food and medications.”

School nurse Amy Jo Havelka said, “If students needed medication they could come get Ibuprofen to ease the pain.” Havelka said students come in because of bad coughs, running noses and eyes and just do not feel good because of the allergies. However, students need to have a written signature from either one of their parents to get it.

Allergies affect many people. Students are affected by allergies and they have some things to say.  Freshman Jerez Autridge said, “I’m allergic to pollen and how it’s affected me isn’t anything big, but it’s something always there to irritate you whether it’s a sneeze or a cough.” So, if one takes their allergy medications and get some tissues, they will be healthy and just fine.