As flu season got underway this fall, Dr. Catherine Monteleone, an allergist, noticed that her office started to receive an unusually high number of calls…
Allergies to specific allergens are not inherited, however, the tendency to develop an allergy is inherited.
Allergies are an overreaction of the body’s immune system to specific substances that it misidentifies as harmful. This overreaction of the body’s immune system is known as an allergic reaction and the substances that cause it are called allergens.
Potential allergens can be anything from dust mites and pollen to insect stings, fragrances, and foods such as shellfish and peanuts. Whatever the allergen, allergic reaction symptoms can be miserable, ranging from a runny nose and watery eyes to breathing problems, diarrhea, hives, and even death.
Allergens and Your Body
Your body’s immune system is a collection of cells and organs that work individually and collectively to protect your body