About Allergies

Allergies affect at least 2 out of every 10 Americans, making them one of the most common health problems across the United States. People who have allergies have a hyperalert immune system that overreacts to a substance in the environment called an allergen. The immune systems reacts to a normally harmless substance, such as pollen, if it is harmful.

When an allergic person is first exposed to an allergen, the body starts to produce a specific type of antibody called IgE to fight the allergen. The antibodies attach to a form of blood cell called a mast cell. Mast cells are plentiful in the airways, and in the GI tract where allergens tend to enter the body. The mast cells explode releasing a variety of chemicals including histamine, which causes most of the symptoms of an allergy including itchiness or a runny nose.

If the allergen is in the air, the allergic reaction will occur in the eyes, nose, and lungs. If the allergen is ingested, the allergic reaction will occur in the mouth, stomach, and intestines.

In the allergy section at Healthplug.com, you can learn more about:

The Different Types of Allergies
Allergy Treatment Methods
How to Live with Allergies

About Allergies

Menu