An allergy refers to an exaggerated reaction by our immune system in response to exposure to certain foreign substances. It is exaggerated because these foreign substances are usually seen by the body as harmless and no response occurs in nonallergic people. In allergic individuals, the body recognizes the foreign substances and one arm of the immune system generates a response.
Allergy-producing substances are called “allergens”. Examples of allergens include pollens, dust mites, molds, animal proteins, foods, and even medications.
Causes Of An allergies
The immune system is the body’s organized defense mechanism against foreign invaders, particularly infections. Its job is to recognize and react to these foreign substances, which are called antigens. Antigens often lead to an immune response through the production of antibodies, which are protective proteins that are specifically targeted against particular antigens. These antibodies, or immunoglobulins are protective and help destroy a foreign particle by attaching to its surface, thereby making it easier for other immune cells to destroy it. The allergic person however develops a specific type of antibody called immunoglobulin E, or IgE, in response to certain normally harmless foreign substances. Other antigens, such as bacteria, do not lead to production of IgE, and therefore do not cause allergic reactions. IgE is an antibody that all of us have in small amounts. Allergic individuals, however, generally produce IgE in larger quantities.
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