#95 - How Allergic Reactions Work: The Science Behind Allergy Symptoms

Have you ever wondered what happens inside your body during an allergic reaction?

From itchy eyes to anaphylaxis, the science behind allergies explains why some reactions are mild while others can be life-threatening. In this episode, we break it all down.

Dr. Payel Gupta and Kortney unpack the basics of food allergies, starting with what IgE antibodies are and how they play a role in allergic reactions. They explain what happens when your immune system encounters an allergen, breaking it down with our favorite pinata analogy. This deep dive into the immune system reveals why reactions can range from mild to life-threatening and explores the differences between food allergies, intolerances, and oral allergy syndrome.

If you're newly diagnosed or curious about the science behind allergies, this episode offers valuable insights to help you understand your body and stay safe.

What we cover in our episode about what happens in an allergic reaction

• What is an allergic reaction? Discover how your immune system identifies allergens and triggers a response involving IgE antibodies, mast cells, and histamine. Confused? We use our pinata analogy to simplify it.
• The role of histamine and inflammation. Learn how histamine is released during an allergic reaction, leading to inflammation and common symptoms.
• Understanding food allergies vs. food intolerances. Explore the key differences, including symptoms, risks, and why terminology matters.
• Oral allergy syndrome and environmental allergies. Understand why some allergies don’t lead to anaphylaxis and how cross-reactivity can cause symptoms.
• Anaphylaxis and severe reactions. Explore why some reactions are life-threatening and how factors like exposure levels and health conditions can influence severity.

More resources about allergies: 

• A Complete Guide to Allergies
• More About Food Allergies
• More About Anaphylaxis
• Food Allergy Treatment & Management
• Living with food allergies guide
• What Can You Do If You Can’t Afford Allergen-Free Foods?
• What if I Can’t Afford My Allergy Medications?

This podcast is made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network. Thanks to Genetech for sponsoring today’s episode. While they support the show, all opinions are our own, and sponsorship doesn’t influence our content or editorial decisions. Any mention of brands is for informational purposes and not an endorsement.