ICSE 7 Biology Allergy Short

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Table of Contents

    ⚡ Quick Revision: Understanding Allergy

    An allergy is an exaggerated or hypersensitive reaction of the immune system to certain substances that are otherwise harmless to most people.

    Key Terminology

    Allergens: The substances that cause an allergic reaction (e.g., pollen, dust, certain foods).
    Histamine: A chemical released by the body during an allergic reaction that causes symptoms like swelling and itching.

    Common Entry Routes for Allergens

    • 1 Nose/Lungs (Inhalation): Pollen, dust mites, animal dander.
    • 2 Mouth (Ingestion): Nuts, milk, eggs, seafood.
    • 3 Skin (Contact): Latex, cosmetics, insect stings.
    [Diagram: Common Environmental and Food Allergens]
    Labeled Figure: Sources of Allergy

    ⚡ Quick Revision: Symptoms & Precautions

    Clinical Presentation

    Symptoms of allergy can range from mild discomfort to a severe, life-threatening condition called Anaphylaxis.

    Common Symptoms

    Respiratory

    Sneezing, runny nose, coughing, wheezing.

    Skin

    Rashes, hives (Urticaria), itching, swelling.

    Digestive

    Stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea.

    Ocular

    Red, watery, or itchy eyes.

    Prevention and Management

    • ✔ Avoidance: The best way to prevent a reaction is to stay away from known allergens.
    • ✔ Medication: Use of Antihistamines to reduce the effect of histamines in the body.
    • ✔ Hygiene: Keeping surroundings dust-free and washing hands after touching pets.
    [Diagram: Diagnostic Testing for Allergies]
    Labeled Figure: Identifying Allergens
    ✅ Chapter "Allergy" Complete. Congratulations on finishing the Biology syllabus revision!

    ⚡ Quick Revision: Allergic Reactions & Emergency Care

    Critical Alert: Anaphylaxis

    Anaphylaxis is a severe, systemic allergic reaction that can lead to a sudden drop in blood pressure and difficulty breathing. It requires immediate medical attention.

    Common Seasonal & Year-round Allergies

    • A Hay Fever (Allergic Rhinitis): Caused by pollen from trees, grass, or weeds. It causes itchy eyes and sneezing mostly during specific seasons.
    • B Asthma: Often triggered by allergens like dust or smoke, leading to the narrowing of airways.
    • C Eczema: An itchy skin inflammation often linked to an overactive immune response to contact allergens.

    First Aid for Allergic Reactions

    1. Identify: Quickly determine if the person has been exposed to a known allergen (like a bee sting or certain food).

    2. Position: Keep the person calm. If they are feeling faint, have them lie flat with their legs raised.

    3. Medication: If the person carries an Epinephrine Auto-injector (EpiPen), help them use it immediately in the outer thigh.

    4. Professional Help: Always call for an ambulance even if symptoms seem to improve after the injection.

    [Diagram: Recognizing Severe Allergic Reactions]
    Labeled Figure: Emergency Signs
    ✨ Pro-Tip: Always check food labels for ingredients like "Whey" (milk) or "Lecithin" (soy) if you have specific food allergies!
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