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BenVitale
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How are IGE antibodies related to an increase of allergies in the world?
IGE Antibodies & Allergy Increase: Facts & Statistics
- Thread starter BenVitale
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In summary, IGE antibodies are a normal part of our immune response, but they are not solely responsible for the increase of allergies in industrialized cultures. The rise in allergies is linked to changes in our daily lifestyles, specifically the obsessive need to be clean and the removal of microbes and microorganisms from our environment. Some studies suggest that exposure to certain parasites and environmental organisms, which were once a regular part of our lives, may help alleviate severe allergies. This highlights the trade-off between modern advancements in disease prevention and the increase in allergies.
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bobze
Science Advisor
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BenVitale said:
IGE antibodies are a normal part of our immune response (see the post above mine), which wouldn't be "responsible" for the increase of allergies.
I think the question really needs to be broken down, firstly the "increase" in allergies is a phenomena happening in industrialized (western) cultures, from this then the question would become why are allergies on the rise in industrialized cultures.
Or better yet, what has changed in industrialized cultures which increase our bodies immune response to seemingly harmless things.
I think many physicians and scientists would answer our bordering obsessive need to be clean. The current theory on it is that we have removed so many microbes and microorganisms that were once a part of our daily lives, we've "freed" up our immune systems to be over-reactive.
Interestingly, there has been some people with severe allergies which have found relief by infecting themselves with parasitic worms (hook worms). The idea being that the body's immune system is too busy killing worms to worry about something so mundane as pollen.
I believe there have also been some studies done on Mycoplasmas and other environmental organisms, which at one time in our history would have constantly been invading our bodies through our daily lifestyles. With our constant hand-washing and food sterilization many of these organisms are no longer present in and on our bodies.
I suppose that's the trade off, wipe out diphtheria and suffer the hay-fever.
Edit for grammar.FAQ: IGE Antibodies & Allergy Increase: Facts & Statistics
What are IGE antibodies and how do they relate to allergies?
IGE antibodies are a type of immunoglobulin, or protein, that plays a vital role in the body's immune response. In individuals with allergies, IGE antibodies are produced in response to exposure to allergens, such as pollen or pet dander. These antibodies trigger the release of chemicals, such as histamine, which cause the symptoms of an allergic reaction.
How common is the increase in allergies related to IGE antibodies?
The prevalence of allergies has been on the rise in recent years, with an estimated 30% of adults and 40% of children in the United States being affected. While there are various factors that contribute to this increase, including environmental and lifestyle changes, the role of IGE antibodies cannot be ignored.
3. Can IGE antibody levels be tested?
Yes, IGE antibody levels can be measured through a blood test. This test, known as an allergen-specific IGE test, can help identify which allergens a person is sensitive to and can aid in the diagnosis of allergies.
4. Are there any risk factors for developing allergies related to IGE antibodies?
There are several known risk factors for developing allergies, including a family history of allergies, exposure to allergens at a young age, and living in an urban environment. Additionally, individuals with other conditions, such as asthma or eczema, may be more likely to develop allergies.
5. Can allergies related to IGE antibodies be prevented?
While there is no sure way to prevent allergies, there are steps that can be taken to reduce exposure to allergens and potentially decrease the risk of developing allergies. These include avoiding known allergens, keeping indoor spaces clean and well-ventilated, and taking allergy medications as prescribed by a doctor.