What Is An Allergy?
An allergy is a hypersensitive immune response to a substance, known as an allergen, that is typically harmless to most people. Common allergens include pollen, dust mites, pet dander, certain foods, and insect stings. When a person with an allergy encounters an allergen, their immune system mistakenly identifies it as a threat, leading to the release of chemicals like histamine. This reaction can cause symptoms such as sneezing, itching, hives, or even severe anaphylaxis in extreme cases. Allergies can be managed through avoidance strategies, medications, and immunotherapy to help reduce sensitivity to specific allergens.