How does an allergy to cats occur? - briefly
An allergy to cats occurs when the immune system mistakenly identifies cat proteins as harmful, leading to the production of immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies. These antibodies trigger the release of histamine and other chemicals that cause allergic symptoms such as itching, sneezing, and watery eyes.
How does an allergy to cats occur? - in detail
An allergy to cats is a common condition that affects many people worldwide. It occurs when the immune system mistakenly identifies harmless proteins found in cat dander, saliva, or urine as threats. Here's a detailed look at how this process unfolds:
When a person with a cat allergy comes into contact with an allergen, such as cat dander, their immune system produces antibodies called immunoglobulin E (IgE). These antibodies are specifically designed to combat invaders like parasites. However, in the case of a cat allergy, they mistakenly target the harmless proteins present in cat allergens.
Once the IgE antibodies are produced, they attach themselves to mast cells and basophils, which are types of white blood cells found throughout the body. Mast cells are particularly prevalent in the skin, lungs, and mucous membranes. When a person with a cat allergy encounters cat allergens again, these antibodies trigger the release of histamine and other chemicals from the mast cells and basophils.
Histamine is responsible for many of the symptoms associated with a cat allergy, such as itching, redness, and swelling. It also causes the production of mucus, leading to sneezing, a runny nose, and watery eyes. In more severe cases, histamine can constrict the airways, resulting in asthma symptoms like wheezing and shortness of breath.
The process by which an allergy to cats occurs is complex and involves multiple steps. Understanding this mechanism helps in developing effective treatments and strategies for managing cat allergies.