Curious1
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Allergies occur due to a slight imperfection or malfunction in the immune system of the person who is suffering from it. Due to the nature of the imperfection, people who are allergic to one substance are usually allergic to other substances as well, although the degree of the symptoms may differ. Scientists are still not sure exactly what causes allergies. Some believe the defect in the immune system is due purely to genetics. Other doctors believe the defect is due to environmental factors or a combination of environmental and genetic factors together.
When people have an allergy to something, proteins in the substance, called an allergen, are seen by the immune system as invading organisms. In order to fight the allergen, the immune system begins producing antibodies. The antibodies stay in the person’s system so that whenever the protein is discovered in the body again, they trigger the release of histamines. Histamines are chemicals that help white blood cells to reach throughout the body to fight off infection. The problem is that histamines can cause a wide range of other side effects, and these side effects are the symptoms of the allergy. The symptoms of an allergy can be mild, such as runny nose, sore throat, rash, or itching. Symptoms can also be more severe in some individuals, possibly leading to death through anaphylactic shock.
Allergies are commonly caused by foods. Shellfish, peanuts, and eggs have high rates of allergic reaction among the general population. Allergens, however, do not have to be ingested for an allergic reaction to occur. Some people are so sensitive that any physical contact with the skin may produce a reaction.
 Posted 5361 day ago
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