Peanuts, dust, cat hair, and flowers; what do these things all have in common? A person can develop an allergy to one or even all of these things. Allergies are your body’s reactions to certain substances in the environment. The type of reaction depends on the substance, called the allergen. Typical reactions include swelling, sneezing, red and itchy eyes, breathing problems, and skin rash. Have you ever experienced an allergic reaction?
An allergy is essentially the result of a “mistaken identity,” wherein the immune system mistakes an allergen for a dangerous substance and attacks it with antibodies. These antibodies trigger a cascade of immune system reactions. For example, if someone with a cat allergy pets a cat, their body’s immune system will create a chemical called histamine to counteract the allergen. This overreaction can cause an itchy sensation.
Aerie Em For The Junior Times junior/1728632616/1678407625
1. What are some common things that people can be allergic to?
2. What happens in your body when you have an allergic reaction?
3. What chemical does the immune system create when it reacts to an allergen?
4. Can allergies cause symptoms like sneezing or itchy eyes?
1. Have you ever had an allergic reaction? What happened?
2. Do you know anyone who has allergies? What are they allergic to?
3. How do you think people can stay safe if they have allergies?
4. What are some ways to help someone who is having an allergic reaction?
Peanuts, dust, cat hair, and flowers; what do these things all have in common? A person can develop an allergy to one or even all of these things. Allergies are your body’s reactions to certain substances in the environment. The type of reaction depends on the substance, called the allergen. Typical reactions include swelling, sneezing, red and itchy eyes, breathing problems, and skin rash. Have you ever experienced an allergic reaction?
