The ROOT CAUSE Of Allergies, Why They GET WORSE & How To GET RID Of Them | Theresa MacPhail
These genes don’t directly determine what you’ll be allergic to, but rather they make your immune system more prone to overreacting to certain substances.
Environmental exposure:
Repeated exposure to allergens can prime your immune system to overreact, leading to an allergy. This is why some people who weren’t initially allergic develop allergies later in life.
The rise in allergies in recent decades suggests environmental factors, such as changes in hygiene practices and increased exposure to pollutants, are playing a bigger role.
Here’s how it works:
First exposure: When you encounter an allergen for the first time, your immune system recognizes it as a foreign substance and produces antibodies specific to it.
Sensitization: These antibodies bind to the allergen, but don’t cause any symptoms yet. This is called sensitization.
Triggering the response: Upon subsequent exposures, the antibodies trigger the release of chemicals like histamine, causing the unpleasant symptoms we experience as allergic reactions.
It’s important to note that the specific allergens that trigger an allergic response vary greatly from person to person. Some common culprits include:
Pollen
Dust mites
Mold
Pet dander
Food (milk, eggs, peanuts, etc.)
Insect venom
Medications
While there’s no single “root cause” for allergies, understanding the interplay of genetics and environment is crucial for:
Developing effective prevention strategies: This might involve minimizing exposure to common allergens or taking immune-modulating medications.
Developing personalized treatments: Precise allergy tests can help identify the specific triggers, allowing for targeted treatment and management.
Remember, if you suspect you might have allergies, it’s always best to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and guidance.