How the allergic response develops
HOW THE ALLERGIC
RESPONSE DEVELOPS
Hayfever, or seasonal allergic rhinitis, is associated with an allergic response to pollen when it comes into contact with the mouth, nose, eyes and throat.
Click on the circles below to reveal each step of the allergic response.
1.
1.
Sufferers produce immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies against pollen (an allergen), and these antibodies bind to the receptors on the surface of mast cells.
2.
2.
IgE sensitised mast cells in the mucosa (lining) of nasal cavities come into close contact with allergens when they are inhaled.
3.
3.
On exposure to pollen, the sensitised mast cells are triggered to release inflammatory mediators, including histamine, which cause the symptoms of hayfever.