Dictionary

allergist: Someone who specializes in treating allergies.

allergy: An abnormal reaction by the body in response to an antigen exposure.

anaphylactic shock: A severe and sometimes fatal reaction to a specific foreign protein upon second exposure.

anaphylaxis: An exaggerated allergic reaction following prior contact with a foreign protein.

antibody: A Y-shaped protein molecule produced by specialized B cells to act specifically against an antigen for the immune system.

antigen: A substance foreign to the body evoking an immune response; capable of binding with the antibodies produced.

antihistamine: A compound that counteracts histamine in the body; used to treat allergic reactions and cold symptoms.

B cell: A lymphocyte derived from bone marrow; also called B lymphocyte.

corticosteroid: A drug used to provide relief for inflamed areas of the body.

dander: Tiny scales from animal hair, feathers and skin that sometimes act as an allergen.

decongestant: Anything that reduces congestion.

diagnosis: Identification of a disease or condition based on its signs and symptoms.

dust mites: Tiny bugs in a home that are about 100^th of an inch big. They feed off pet and human dander and are a major cause of allergies and asthma.

eczema: An inflammatory skin condition with redness, itching and oozing lesions that become hard, scaly and crusty.