Glossary - Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology
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adrenaline - see epinephrine.
allergen - the substance that triggers an allergic reaction.
allergy - an acquired, abnormal immune response to a substance that can cause a broad range of inflammatory reactions.
anaphylaxis (Also called anaphylactic shock.) - a sudden, severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction caused by food allergy, insect stings or medications. Symptoms can include hives, swelling (especially of the lips and face), difficulty breathing (either because of swelling in the throat or an asthmatic reaction), vomiting, diarrhea, cramping and a fall in blood pressure.
antibody (Also called an immunoglobulin.) - a complex protein that is manufactured by lymphocytes to neutralize or destroy an antigen or foreign protein. Many types of antibodies are protective; however, inappropriate or excessive formation of antibodies may lead to illness.
antigen - a substance that can trigger an immune response causing the production of antibodies as part of the body's defense against infection and disease.
antihistamine drugs - a group of drugs that block the effects of histamine, a chemical released in body fluids during an allergic reaction.
anti-inflammatory drugs - drugs that reduce the symptoms and signs of inflammation.
asthma - a chronic, inflammatory lung disease characterized by recurrent breathing problems usually triggered by allergens (infection, exercise, cold air, and other factors may also be triggers).
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bronchitis - an inflammation of the mucous membranes of the bronchial tubes, causing a persistent cough that produces considerable quantities of sputum (phlegm).
bronchodilators - a group of drugs that widen the airways in the lungs.
bronchus - any of the larger air passages that connect the trachea to the lungs.
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celiac disease (Also called celiac sprue or gluten sensitive enteropathy.) - a sensitivity to gluten, a wheat protein. Individuals with this disease must avoid gluten-containing grains, which include all forms of wheat, oats, barley, and rye.
contact dermatitis - a rash or an inflammation of the skin caused by contact with various substances.
corticosteroids - a group of anti-inflammatory drugs similar to the natural corticosteroid hormones produced by the adrenal glands.
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digestive system - the group of organs that break down foods into chemical components that the body can absorb and use for energy, and for building and repairing cells and tissues.
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eczema - inflammation of the skin, usually causing itching and sometimes accompanied by crusting, scaling, or blisters.
epinephrine - one of two chemicals (the other is norepinephrine) released by the adrenal gland that increases the speed and force of heart beats. It dilates the airways to improve breathing and narrows blood vessels in the skin and intestine so that an increased flow of blood reaches the muscles and allows them to cope with the demands of exercise.