What is an allergy?

An allergy is often referred to as a disorder in the immune system. It is normally caused by substances in the environment known as allergens. The reactions could be acquired and are normally predictable and very rapid. Allergies are a type of hypersensitivity. There is normally an activation of the white blood cells or the mast cells and the basophils by an antibody known as IgE which results in a response of inflammation. The most commonly seen allergies are eczema, hives, hay fever, asthma attacks, food related allergies and reactions to insect stings such as wasps and bees.

Hay fever is a mild allergy and can cause allergic conjunctivitis, itching and a runny nose. In conditions like Asthma allergies can play a vital role. Sometimes allergies to the environment or dietary allergens or medication can cause anaphylactic reactions and can lead to death.

There are many tests nowadays to figure out allergic conditions. These consist of testing the skin to see whether there is a response to known allergens and analysis of the blood for the presence of the allergen-specific IgE. The treatments include avoiding the particular allergen, use of anti-histamines, steroids, immunotherapy and targeted therapy.