Posted by Cam W. on March 23, 2000, at 23:19:14
In reply to Your Doctor is Misinformed about Allergic Response, posted by MHK on March 23, 2000, at 14:40:44
An alleric reaction occurs when an allergen (the thing you are allergic to) enters your body. Your body's immune system makes antibodies to fight this foreign invader. The next time you introduce the allergen to your body your immune system begins to churn out antibodies in large numbers. The antibodies attach to white blood cells (mast cells) that contain histamine. The antibodies break open the mast cells and release the histamine. The histamine causes many changes in your body, but mainly directs white blood cells (in a more or less indirect way) to destroy the allergen and remove it from the body. The released histamine is what causes hives (the rash that is seen). Antihistamines work by binding to the mast cells, not allowing the antibodies to break open the cells and release histamine. Just a little info - Cam W.
poster:Cam W.
thread:27718
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20000321/msgs/27993.html