All about allergy

Almost anything can trigger an allergic reaction:
The body’s immune system involves the white blood cells, which produce antibodies.
When the body is exposed to an antigen, a complex set of reactions begins.
The white blood cells produce an antibody specific to that antigen. This is called «sensitization.»
The job of the antibodies is to detect and help destroy substances that cause disease and sickness. In allergic reactions, the antibody is called immunoglobulin E or IgE.
This antibody promotes production and release of chemicals and hormones called «mediators.»
Mediators have effects on local tissue and organs in addition to activating more white blood cell defenders. It is these effects that cause the symptoms of the reaction.
Histamine is one of the better-known mediators produced by the body.
If the release of the mediators is sudden or extensive, the allergic reaction may also be sudden and severe, and anaphylaxis may occur.
Your allergic reactions are unique to you. For example, your body may have learned to be allergic to shellfish or other foods from repeated exposure.
Most people are aware of their particular allergy triggers and reactions.
Certain foods, vaccines and medications, latex rubber, aspirin, shellfish, dust, pollen, mold, animal dander, and poison ivy are well-known allergens.
Bee stings, fire ant stings, penicillin, and peanuts are known for causing dramatic reactions that can be serious and involve the whole body.
Minor injuries, hot or cold temperatures, exercise, or even emotions may be triggers of allergic reactions.
Often, the specific allergen cannot be identified unless you have had a similar reaction in the past.
Allergies and the tendency to have allergic reactions run in some families. You may have allergies even if they do not run in your family.
Many people who have one trigger tend to have other triggers as well.
People with certain medical conditions are more likely to have allergic reactions:
-severe allergic reaction in the past

-asthma

-lung conditions that affect breathing, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
-nasal polyps
-frequent infections of the nasal sinuses, ears, or respiratory tract
-sensitive skin

Allergy journal

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