Fighting Allergies

By B_landreau

  • Step 1

    Step 1
    A person eats an allergen, or substance that causes an allergic reaction for the first time.

  • Step 2

    Step 2
    When the person eats the allergen, the body creates an antibody, or a protein that detects harmful substances.

  • Step 3

    Step 3
    This antibody, attatches itself to cells found in tissues all over the body so it is prepared for the anitbody to enter the body again.

  • Step 4

    Step 4
    When the food allergen enters the body again, the allergen connects to the antibodies and sends out signals to the body to release large amounts of histamine.

  • Step 5

    Step 5
    The histamine from the antibody causes irritation and swelling in parts of the body.

  • Step 6

    Step 6
    The result of this irritation is different for each person, from hives, wheezing , to anaphylaxis.