Why is Allergy Caused?

April 5, 2024 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's

Allergies

Allergies occur when the immune system overreacts to substances that are usually harmless, such as pollen, dust mites, certain foods, or animal dander. The exact cause of allergies is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Here’s an overview of how allergies develop:

  • Genetic Predisposition: There is a strong genetic component to allergies. People with a family history of allergies are more likely to develop allergies themselves. However, the specific genes involved in allergies are complex and can vary among individuals.
  • Environmental Exposure: Allergies often develop after repeated exposure to allergens. When the immune system encounters an allergen, such as pollen or pet dander, it may produce antibodies called immunoglobulin E (IgE) in response. These antibodies trigger the release of histamine and other chemicals, leading to allergic symptoms.
  • Immune System Response: In people with allergies, the immune system mistakenly identifies harmless substances as threats and mounts an immune response against them. This immune response involves the production of IgE antibodies and the release of inflammatory chemicals, such as histamine, that cause allergic symptoms such as sneezing, itching, or swelling.
  • Sensitization: The first exposure to an allergen usually does not cause allergic symptoms. Instead, it sensitizes the immune system to the allergen, priming it for a more vigorous response upon subsequent exposures. This is why people may not develop allergies until after repeated exposures to a particular allergen.
  • Environmental Factors: Environmental factors, such as pollution, exposure to tobacco smoke, or changes in diet, may also play a role in the development of allergies. These factors can influence the immune system’s response to allergens and may contribute to the increasing prevalence of allergies in some populations.
  • Hygiene Hypothesis: Some researchers propose that reduced exposure to certain microbes in early childhood may contribute to the development of allergies. This idea, known as the hygiene hypothesis, suggests that exposure to microbes early in life helps to regulate the immune system and prevent it from overreacting to harmless substances.

Overall, allergies are complex conditions influenced by a combination of genetic predisposition, environmental factors, and immune system responses. While allergies cannot be cured, they can often be managed through avoidance of allergens, medications, and allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots) in some cases.

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