Immune System

  • Step 1

    Step 1
    A person eats an allergen, or substance that causes an allergic reaction for the first time.
  • Step 2

    Step 2
    After the person consumes the allergen, the body creates an antibody, or a protein that detects harmful substances.
  • Step 3

    The antibody attatches itself to cells in order to prepare the body for the allergen to enter the body again.
  • Step 4

    Step 4
    When the person consumes the allergen again, it connects to the antibodies and sends signals in order for the body to release large amounts of histamine.
  • Step 5

    Step 5
    Irritation is casued by the large amount of histamine in the body.
  • Step 6

    Step 6
    The irritation varies person to person, from mild hives, shortness of breath, to anaphylaxis.