Allergic Sensitization

Allergic sensitization occurs when the immune system mistakenly identifies a normally harmless substance, like pollen or pet dander, as a threat. The first time this happens, the body produces specific antibodies called IgE in response to the allergen. These antibodies attach to immune cells, priming the system. Upon subsequent encounters with the same allergen, these cells release chemicals, such as histamine, leading to allergic symptoms like sneezing, itching, or swelling. Essentially, the immune system learns to overreact to harmless substances, resulting in allergies.