Brand Drugs Category // Allergy

Allergy is a reaction of the human defense system against substances which do not commonly cause troubles, and which are normally tolerated by most of the people. When a virus or a bacteria enters the body, this produces defense ANTIBODIES, which destroy the invading agent. In the case of allergy, something similar happens, but antibodies are produced against a normally harmless (pollen, food, …) substance, which is called allergen.

The reaction allergen-antibody is responsible for symptoms, which depend on the part of the body where this reaction takes place (coughing, wheezing, sneezing, hives, etc.) But these symptoms will not appear until the level of antibodies (and hence, the severity of the reaction) exceeds the individual level of tolerance.

Allergic reactions are caused by substances in the environment known as allergens. Almost anything can be an allergen for someone. Allergens contain protein, which is often regarded as a constituent of the food we we eat. In fact it is an organic compound, containing hydrogen, oxygen and nitrogen, which form an important part of living organisms.

The most common allergens are:

pollen from trees and grasses, house dust mite, moulds, pets such as cats and dogs, insects like wasps and bees, industrial and household chemicals, medicines, and foods such as milk and eggs.
Less common allergens include nuts, fruit and latex.

Allergies can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, race, or socioeconomic status. Generally, allergies are more common in children. However, a first-time occurrence can happen at any age, or recur after many years of remission.

There is a tendency for allergies to occur in families, although the exact genetic factors that cause it are not yet understood. In susceptible people, factors such as hormones, stress, smoke, perfume, or other environmental irritants may also play a role. Often, the symptoms of allergies develop gradually over a period of time.

Allergy sufferers may become so accustomed to chronic symptoms such as sneezing, nasal congestion, or wheezing, that they do not consider their symptoms to be unusual. Yet, with the help of an allergist, these symptoms can usually be prevented or controlled and quality of life greatly improved.