Dr Sandra Cabot discusses allergies with Dr Olivia Lesslar.

An allergic response is an inappropriate reaction (exaggerated response) of the body’s immune system to a substance that is normally harmless to the body.

The offending substance is called an allergen and can include; dust, dust mite, grass pollens, certain foods, food additives, chemicals, some metals like nickel, and animal hair to name but a few.

Initial exposure to the allergen leads to the production of specific antibodies. These antibodies attach themselves to body cells (such as mast cells and basophils that form part of our immune system).

On subsequent exposure, the allergens can then bind to the sensitised cells by bridging the antibodies, as a key fits into a lock. Once unlocked, the mast cells release histamine and other inflammatory chemicals.

These chemicals are responsible for such symptoms as inflammation, swelling, redness, itching, dilatation of blood vessels, constriction of the airways and increased mucus secretion.

Typical allergic reactions include; asthma, hayfever, sinusitis, swelling of the throat (anaphylaxis), hives, eczema, migraine headaches and abdominal bloating and cramping.

According to the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, four in ten Australians suffer from allergies of some sort including cow’s milk, dust mites, pollen, pets, moulds, certain chemicals and food additives.

For more information go to

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