¿Qué es la alergia?

What Causes Respiratory Allergies?

Overview of Respiratory Allergies

• Respiratory allergies typically cause symptoms affecting the nose, eyes, and throat when an allergic individual comes into contact with a harmless substance known as an allergen.

• These symptoms can disrupt daily life, leading to sleep disturbances, fatigue, absenteeism from work or school, and poor performance in various activities.

Mechanism of Allergic Reactions

• An allergy is characterized as an overreaction of the immune system upon encountering an allergen. This reaction occurs in two phases:

• Desensitization Phase: During initial contact with the allergen, the immune system identifies it as a threat. Macrophages and lymphocytes interact, producing specific antibodies that bind to mast cells.

• Reaction Phase: Upon subsequent exposure to the same allergen, sensitized mast cells recognize it immediately and release inflammatory substances that activate the immune response.

Symptoms and Progression

• The inflammatory molecules released are responsible for allergy symptoms. Respiratory allergies are chronic conditions that can worsen if left untreated.

• Patients sensitive to one allergen may develop sensitivities to additional allergens over time. For instance, allergic rhinitis can lead to further complications if not managed properly.