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Health Conditions
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Allergy
What is it?
An allergy is your body's reaction to a foreign substance--such as pollen or pet dander--that enters, or comes in contact with the body. It may be that pollen never bothered you before but over time, and with repeated exposures, your body grew overly sensitive to it, resulting in allergy symptoms such as
sneezing and watery eyes. When foreign substances such as pollen cause allergic reactions, they are called allergens.
Allergens cause cells in your body to release chemicals known as mediators, which trigger allergy symptoms. These mediators include histamine and prostaglandins.
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Histamine is the mediator that stimulates mucus production and causes redness, swelling and inflammation.
- Prostaglandins are mediators that constrict airways and enlarge blood vessels.
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Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It is not intended to diagnose a health condition, but it can be used as a guide to help you decide if you should seek professional treatment or to help you learn more about your condition once it has been diagnosed.
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What is it?
