Subtitle: Causes of Allergic Reactions
An allergic reaction is a type of immune system response that occurs when the body is exposed to a foreign substance, such as pollen, dust, animal fur, or certain foods. Allergic reactions can range from mild to severe and can cause various symptoms, such as sneezing, wheezing, skin rashes, hives, and anaphylaxis.
There are four main causes of allergic reactions:
1. Allergens: Allergens are the most common cause of allergic reactions. Allergens are substances that can trigger an allergic reaction, such as pollen, dust, animal fur, certain foods, and certain medications. When a person is exposed to an allergen, their immune system mistakenly identifies the substance as a threat and releases chemicals, such as histamine, that cause a variety of symptoms.
2. Irritants: Irritants are substances that can irritate the skin, eyes, nose, throat, or lungs, such as smoke, strong odors, or certain chemicals. Exposure to irritants can cause symptoms similar to those of an allergic reaction, such as coughing, wheezing, sneezing, and skin rashes.
3. Genetic Factors: Certain genetic factors can increase a person's risk of having an allergic reaction. People with a family history of allergies have a higher risk of developing allergies themselves.
4. Drug Reactions: Certain medications, such as antibiotics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, can trigger an allergic reaction. People who are allergic to a medication may experience symptoms such as rash, hives, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing, and anaphylaxis.
