What is an allergy?

	Tweet			Pin It
0

If you have an allergy, it means there are certain harmless things that your body encounters and accidentally thinks are dangerous. Allergies are a response of your immune system, which mixes up something that shouldn’t be dangerous to your body (like pollen) with something else that is (like germs). While most people might not react to this thing at all, in some people it will cause an allergic reaction, a reaction meant to rid or warn you of the perceived danger. A person who reacts this way to something that most people are not affected by is “allergic” to it, and the thing that causes the reaction is an “allergen.” 

People can be allergic to all sorts of things. Lots of people are allergic to pollen, dust, and pet hair which cause them to have a runny nose, itchy eyes, or lots of sneezing. Other times, people are allergic to certain foods such as nuts, seafood, fruits, eggs, and more. Someone who is allergic to certain foods might have trouble digesting them, get a rash after eating them, or even have trouble breathing when around them. People can also be allergic to things such as bee stings or certain medications. 

Most people are able to control their allergies by avoiding the thing they are allergic to or taking medications. It’s important to remember that some allergies can be really serious and so if there’s something you’re allergic to, follow your parents’ and doctor’s instructions for staying away and taking care of yourself if you do encounter the thing that triggers your allergy! Even though allergies can be tough to deal with or even dangerous, try to remember that your body is just doing its best to protect you and keep you safe!

Your body has allergic reactions when it thinks you've encountered something dangerous. Why do you think our bodies are built to warn us of danger? What would be difficult about not having these warning signs from our bodies??

What are some other examples of ways your body warns you about harm? Your instinct to pull your hand away from water that is too hot is one good example! Can you think of others??