Saturday, August 13, 2011

Allergies Overview

Allergies occur when the immune system reacts to a foreign substance such as pollen, bee venom, or pet dander.

The immune system produces substances known as antibodies. Some of these antibodies will protect against unwanted invaders that can make you sick or cause infection. When you have allergies, the immune system produces antibodies that specifically recognize nothing harmful allergen, even if it is not. When you come into contact with the allergen, the reaction of the immune system to inflame the skin, sinuses, respiratory tract or gastrointestinal tract.

The severity of allergies varies from person to person and can range from mild irritation to anaphylaxis - a life-threatening emergency. Although allergies can not be cured, treatments can help alleviate allergy symptoms.

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