Allergic disease is one of the most common chronic health conditions worldwide. In the U.S., more than 100 million people experience various types of allergies each year. Allergies can impact any individual and develop at any point in life, raising the question of how they develop.
Allergy Responses
Allergic reactions occur when the body mistakes a normal substance as a threat and reacts with an immune response. The immune system protects the body from harmful microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi and viruses. Cells and organs work together to make up the immune system; some examples include blood vessels, lymph nodes and the spleen. Allergic reactions begin in the immune system when a normal stimulus enters the body, and the immune system creates antibodies to attack the allergen.
This can cause the following symptoms:
- Itchy eyes
- Runny nose
- Coughing
- Wheezing
These symptoms can range from mild sniffles during a walk through Grant Park to severe and life-threatening anaphylactic shock. When the body mistakes a normal substance and reacts with an immune response, an allergy develops.
When the immune system is functioning optimally and the body accepts the presence of a substance as normal, it’s called a Type 1 response. If the body’s immune system sees the substance as a threat, an inflammatory response occurs, called a Type 2 response.
The first time the body is exposed to an allergen, resulting in a Type 2 response is an allergic sensitization. Once the body is sensitized, it will remember the substance, resulting in an allergic reaction the next time it comes in contact with the allergen.
Scientists are still working to understand why the body would overreact to the presence of an allergen, highlighting the need for symptom management. The easiest way to avoid an allergic reaction is to avoid the allergen altogether. When impossible, antihistamines or steroids can be considered as a symptom management option.
To learn more about your allergies or to schedule an allergy test, contact ENT of Georgia North today.
