Allergies and sensitivities are not the same thing. Although many people commonly confuse the two, they are distinctly different. An allergen is any substance that causes the body to experience an immune system reaction that results in the creation of immunoglobulin E, or IgE, antibodies, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. Sensitivities can cause symptoms similar to those caused by an allergy, but the immune system is not involved in the process. If you develop adverse symptoms from certain substances, talk to your doctor for an accurate diagnosis.
Allergies
An allergic reaction occurs when an allergen enters the body. Common allergens include dust mites, pollen, mold spores, pet dander, foods, medications and insect stings and bites. Some people can develop an allergy to anything, unrelated to common allergens. When the allergen enters the body, the immune system overreacts and begins to defend the body by creating antibodies to fight off the invading substance. Although the substance is considered harmless to most people, your immune system mistakes it as harmful. The result of IgE antibodies in the bloodstream is the creation of histamine, which is responsible for most allergy symptoms.
Symptoms
Allergy symptoms can vary from person to person and may be different depending on what type of allergy they have. Common allergy symptoms include respiratory reactions, skin irritation and sinus inflammation, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. You may develop shortness of breath, chest tightness, wheezing and coughing shortly after coming in contact with an allergen. Hives, eczema and general skin swelling and itching are common with allergic reactions.
Sensitivities
Sensitivities, or intolerances, cause adverse reactions in the body that are unrelated to the immune system, according to MayoClinic.com. For example, you may find that when you're around someone who's smoking a cigarette, you develop sinus congestion and pressure. The toxins and ingredients in the cigarette smoke cause your sinus cavity to become irritated and inflamed, without an immune reaction. Common sensitivities include lactose, fragrances, pollution, mold and wheat.
Diagnosis
In some cases it is difficulty to distinguish between a sensitivity and an allergy. Commonly confused substances include wheat, milk and mold. Some people may be allergic to the proteins found in wheat, such as gluten, while another person may have an intolerance towards gluten. The same is true with mold. Mold can cause nasal congestion, skin rashes and asthma in some people without an allergic reaction. Your doctor may recommend participating in allergy tests to determine the cause of your symptoms.
