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Allergen is consumed
The allergen will be consumed by the individual. The individual does not know yet that the allergen is in fact an allergen. -
IgE antibody is formed
Inside the body, an IgE antibody is formed. It will attach itself to the tissue cells in cells all over the body. -
Body is primed
After the antibody is attached to the cells, the body will then become primed for that allergen if the individual were to ever consume that allergen again. -
Allergen is consumed again
Once the allergen is consumed again, then it will begin to bind to the IgE antibodies. -
Histamine is created
The signals will tell the body to release large amounts of histamine. The histamine will cause irritation and swelling in certain area on the body. This is also known as an allergic reaction. -
Emergency actions
Once the individual is aware that they are indeed having an allergic reaction, they or another person will begin to take emergency action and put a stop to the itching and swelling. -
Actions that may be done
There are many actions that a person could take if having an allergic reaction. If not severe, the individual could take an oral antihistamine (ex. Benadryl) or a long-term antihistamine (ex. Claritin or Zyrtec). They could even take a steroid cream to stop irritations (ex. Hydrocortisone). If the reaction is severe, then the individual should do something right away. They could call 911 if their alone or use an epi-pen if prescribed one. The individual should NEVER wait the reaction out.