Immune system and its disproportionate response
The essence of allergy is an inappropriate response of the immune system of an individual meeting with certain substances. These substances are called allergens. Allergen may be any substance, but most of them is of biological origin. These materials are for the body normally harmless even in large quantities, and are commonly found in the environment. When an allergen enters the body of a healthy person's immune system does not work against this substance no reaction.
If, however, penetrates even small amounts of allergen in allergic organism, the immune system is activated and elicits an immune response. This response has two phases:
Sensitization or enhancement of sensitivity. During this phase forms antibodies against the allergen, and they then bind to some cells of the immune system.
The actual allergic reaction. The second stage occurs when the body encounters an allergen again. Antibodies are released from binding to cells of the immune system, which are thereby activated and begin to produce different substances - e.g. histamine. The result of these substances are allergy symptoms such as runny nose, rash, sore throat, watery eyes and pinching etc.
The most common allergens
Pollen grains, parts of bodies and feces of mites, fungi, certain foods - especially peanuts, milk and eggs from the hair of dogs, cats, guinea pigs and other "furry" animals, bee and wasp stings, certain drugs - especially antibiotics, local anesthetics (local agents numbness) and disinfectants.
Allergy symptoms
Allergic reactions can manifest themselves in two ways:
Local symptoms - are much more common and include for example. Runny nose, sneezing, sore nose, tearing, stinging eyes, coughing, rash, swelling, difficulty breathing, vomiting or diarrhea.
Total allergic reaction - anaphylactic shock manifested. It is a life-threatening condition in which there is a decrease in blood pressure, breathing disturbances, massive swelling to loss of consciousness. Anaphylactic shock can occur eg. In people allergic to bee stings, so they brought with them to carry adrenalin pen (special injection that contains the drug epinephrine). Anaphylactic shock is indeed serious, but fortunately not too frequent manifestation of allergies.
How do I know what I'm allergic to?
Search allergen responsible for your problem can sometimes be a challenge. For example, can tell you. It if your symptoms occur only during spring and summer or throughout the year. Whether you have symptoms throughout the day, or only at certain times, if they appear rather outdoors or at home or at work. Furthermore, if he shows up after a meal, drink or caress a pet. Anyway, if you think you have allergies, see an allergist. An expert with you thoroughly discuss your problem, it investigates, perform skin tests for allergens and, if necessary, make further investigations needed to determine the best treatment for you.
Source: Pollen služba.cz