-
A person eats an allergen that causes an allergic reaction for the first time since it is the first time the body has rejected this certain substance.
-
When a person eats the allergen, the body will create an antibody which is a protein that detects harmful substances.
-
This antibody attaches itself to cells found in tissues all over the body in order to prepare the body for if that allergen enters body again.
-
When the food allergen enters the body again, the allergen binds to the antibodies and sends out signals to the body to release large amounts of histamine.
-
The histamine causes irritation and swelling in parts of the body.
-
The result of this irritation varies in person to person, from mild hives, shortness of breath, to anaphylaxis.