Allergy is nothing but the reaction of the immune system to any substance that is not compatible with the body. The main task of immune system is to protect the body against any foreign invaders like bacteria, virus and dust and pollen. The substance that causes allergy in the body is known as allergens. Allergy is mainly caused by environment factors like dust, pollen and smoke. The immune system produces an allergic antibody called IgE whenever the body is prone to allergic substance.
Allergy can occur at any age and is common for all. An individual is at high risk of developing allergy if he/she has a family history. About 15-30% of employees working in industrial situations are affected by some kind of allergy. About 20-25% of Americans develop allergic rhinitis and it is reported that each year the amount spent for the purpose of allergy alone exceeds $3 billion. Roughly 8-10% of Americans develop asthma (due to allergy).
A person who is prone to allergy is known as “allergic” or atopic. Allergy related diseases are increasing steadily over the past two decades. Allergy can be defined as the response of the immune system to the presence of foreign substances like dust, pollen or pet dander. Normally for most of the people it may not cause any reaction but people with compromised immunity develop allergic reaction. The immune system would sense threat to the body when a person comes in contact with allergens and triggers the production of antibodies.
Many times antibodies are produced even if particular substance is not harmful to the body. Some of the common allergens are pollen, dust, bee venom, pet dander and smoke. Allergy can cause many reactions on the body like blocked nose, sinuses, skin rashes and disturbed digestive system. The degree of allergic reaction varies considerably from one person to another. For many people it can cause minor irritation but in rare cases it can cause anaphylaxis, a serious emergency condition. Allergy cannot be cured but the intensity of the symptoms can be managed.