The Science Behind Allergies: What You Need To Know

Allergies are basically your body’s way of alarming you against something potentially wrong. Allergies impact millions of people worldwide—from uncontrollable sneezes due to dust or breaking into hives after eating peanuts. Did you know over 400 million people suffer from allergic rhinitis, also called hay fever, globally, and nearly 220 million people? Are affected by food allergies worldwide. So why does your immune system actually overreact to harmless substances? Read this article to find out about the science behind allergies.

An allergy occurs when your immune system misinterprets a harmless substance, such as pollen and peanuts. These substances are known as allergens, which trigger the production of immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies. Further, these antibodies prompt cells to release histamines and other chemicals, causing symptoms including sneezing, itching, and swelling.

Although the exact cause of allergies is yet unknown, some of the potential causes include 

If parents have allergies, there's a high chance that the kids might experience it too.

Pollution, diet changes, and urban living are significantly increasing exposure to the allergens.

Sometimes, growing up in overly clean environments may confuse the immune system, resulting in your body overreacting to harmless substances.

Some of the common allergens that possibly trigger allergies in your body include

Milk, eggs, peanuts, shellfish, and wheat

Pollen, mold spores, dust mites, and pet dander.

Bees, wasps, and ants

Penicillin, ibuprofen 

So how do allergic reactions actually happen when exposed to an allergen? When your body is exposed to an allergen, your body releases histamines. These chemicals cause inflammation and irritation, which leads to symptoms including

Though there’s no complete cure for allergies, their symptoms can effectively be managed with proper care.

The best way to reduce allergic responses is to eliminate your exposure to specific allergens and use air purifiers and dehumidifiers.

Medications such as antihistamines and corticosteroids also help ease symptoms.

Allergy shots also play an effective role in gradually reducing sensitivity to allergens.

The symptoms of allergies can range from mild to life-threatening, such as anaphylaxis. Therefore, it becomes important to know the exact science behind how allergens trigger such responses in the body. After all, with the staggering figures of the number of people affected, it becomes even more important to have a good understanding of the science behind allergies.