The term "allergic response" is spelled using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /əˈlɜr.dʒɪk/ /rɪˈspɒns/. In this word, the stress is on the second syllable ("ler"). The "allergic" part of the word is derived from the word "allergy," which comes from the Greek "allos" meaning "other" and "ergon" meaning "work." The "response" part of the word simply refers to the body's reaction to an allergen. Overall, the spelling of "allergic response" is representative of the sounds in the English language and accurately reflects the pronunciation of the word.
An allergic response refers to an abnormal reaction of the immune system to a typically harmless substance, known as an allergen. It is characterized by a series of physiological and chemical changes that occur in the body as a result of exposure to the allergen. This response is triggered when the immune system mistakenly identifies the allergen as a threat and initiates a defensive mechanism to protect the body from perceived harm.
During an allergic response, various immune cells release a substance called histamine, which causes a range of symptoms. These can include sneezing, itching, redness, swelling, congestion, coughing, wheezing, watery eyes, and skin rashes. In more severe cases, an allergic response may lead to anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening condition characterized by difficulty breathing, low blood pressure, and loss of consciousness.
Common allergens that can trigger an allergic response include pollen, dust mites, pet dander, certain foods (such as peanuts, shellfish, or dairy products), insect stings, medications, and latex. Each person may have different allergens to which they are more susceptible.
The treatment for an allergic response typically involves avoiding exposure to known allergens, and in some cases, medication may be prescribed to alleviate symptoms or prevent severe reactions. Allergy testing is often conducted to identify specific allergens responsible for the response, helping individuals manage their allergies more effectively.
The word "allergic response" is derived from a combination of different origins.
The term "allergic" comes from the Greek word "allos", meaning "other" or "different", and the suffix "-ic", which is used to form adjectives. It was first coined in 1906 by the Austrian pediatrician Clemens von Pirquet when he observed abnormal reactions to certain substances in patients.
The word "response" originates from the Latin word "responsum", which means "an answer" or "reply". It refers to the reaction or reply of an organism to a stimulus or action.
Combining these two terms, "allergic response" indicates the specific reaction or response of an individual's immune system to an allergen, which can range from mild symptoms (such as itching or sneezing) to severe and life-threatening reactions (such as anaphylaxis).