How Allergic Reactions Work: The Science Behind Allergy Symptoms

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Welcome to our new Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Innovations Podcast series on understanding allergies. This episode explains what happens in your body during an allergic reaction. It also explores the differences between food allergies, food intolerance, and oral allergy syndrome.

This episode is produced in partnership with The Itch Podcast. Co-hosts Payel Gupta, MD, and Kortney break down the basics of allergies. They explain how immunoglobulin E (iGE) antibodies and histamine cause symptoms and why some reactions can be life-threatening.

Learn more about the podcast and hosts on ItchPodcast.com. The podcast can be downloaded on all major platforms for listening anytime, anywhere:

This episode is sponsored by Genentech.

All opinions on the show represent the views of the podcasters and the guest. Sponsorship does not influence content or editorial decisions. Any mention of brands is for informational purposes and not an endorsement.

What happens during an allergic reaction

Dr. Gupta explains the science behind allergies. She explains how the immune system reacts to allergens by making IgE antibodies. These antibodies trigger histamine release, leading to symptoms like itching, swelling, and even anaphylaxis.

We also look at food intolerance and oral allergy syndrome and how they are different from allergies.

Key takeaways from The Science Behind Allergy Symptoms

This episode explains allergic reactions and the differences between food, drug, venom, and environmental allergies. Key points include:

  • What is an allergic reaction? Learn what happens in the body. How IgE antibodies and histamine cause symptoms.
  • Food allergies vs. intolerances: Understand the differences in causes and symptoms.
  • Oral allergy syndrome: Find out why raw fruits and vegetables can cause reactions, but cooked ones may not.
  • Anaphylaxis: Find out why some allergies lead to life-threatening reactions.

Podcast timestamps for The Science Behind Allergy Symptoms

01:09 – What is a food allergy?

02:34 – How IgE antibodies work in allergic reactions.

07:05 – What happens during an allergic reaction.

08:30 – Using a piñata to explain allergic reactions.

10:46 – How TH1 and TH2 immune responses affect allergies.

12:03 – Types of allergic reactions: Food, drug, venom, and environmental.

16:10 – Why every allergic reaction is different.

18:05 – Food allergies vs. food intolerances: Key differences.

21:50 – Why using the right terms for allergies and intolerances matters.

25:16 – What is oral allergy syndrome?

28:20 – Why you can eat some foods cooked but not raw.

Resources about allergies: 

More episodes about allergic reactions: