An allergy is an overstated reaction against the immune system of an individual when it comes in the contact of some foreign bodies. These foreign substances are usually normal to other non allergic people and affect particular organisms. People who are allergic respond immediately to the foreign bodies by turning on their immune system.
The substances which produce allergies are known as allergens. Some commonly known allergens are pollen, pet dander, and foods. People who are prone to allergies are termed as allergic.
The word allergy is basically derived from Greek word “Allos” which means different and “ergos” which means action. When allergens come in contact with the allergic people, the immune system starts reacting towards it.
Facts about Allergies:
- According to the estimates, 50 million North Americans are allergic.
- In United States the cost of allergy treatment is around $10 billion annually.
- Nasal allergies affect about 35 million Americans.
- 15 million Americans are affected by Asthma.
What Causes Allergies?
Actually every individual has an immune system which is responsible for the body defense. Antigens can detect foreign substances and also produce antibodies i.e. proteins to fight against infections. In case of normal non allergic persons, the antibodies like IgM, IgG, and various immune cells respond to attack against the foreign bodies. But at the same time, in case of allergic people, these antibodies are overproduced and this causes allergic reactions.
Is there any particular age to get Allergies?
There is no particular age of being allergic. Children get allergic usually but symptoms may rise in adulthood. Asthma is usually seen in adults. Although allergies may be inherited, symptoms may not be there. An important thing to notice is that one may not inherit the same allergies as their parents.
Symptoms and Signs:
The most prone organs that react towards the allergies are skin, stomach, eyes, skin and nose. Common symptoms can be discussed as:
- Itching on ears and throat
- Nasal itching and rubbing
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
Asthma:
It is inflammation in the of the lung’s air passages which causes breathing problem. The air passage gets narrower and that’s why air flow is limited. The usual symptoms are
- Breath shortness
- Coughing
- Wheezing
Allergic eyes:
It is the inflammation of eye membranes that covers the eyeball. The allergic eyes produce the following symptoms:
- Swelling
- Redness of the eyes
- Itching
Hives:
These are skin reactions which can happen over any part of the body usually caused due to food or medicines. Symptom is intense itching.
Allergies can be cured, your physicians can best diagnose your for allergies.
Recent Comments