Allergology Vocabulary in English

An allergy involves the immune system producing an abnormal response to a substance, often releasing immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies. Symptoms can range from mild hives to life-threatening anaphylaxis. An intolerance is a non-immune reaction, usually affecting the digestive system, such as lactose intolerance, which causes bloating and discomfort but is not life-threatening.

Anaphylaxis is a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that can cause swelling of the throat, a sudden drop in blood pressure, and difficulty breathing. It requires immediate treatment with an injection of epinephrine (adrenaline), usually from an auto-injector such as an EpiPen. Anyone at risk of anaphylaxis should carry their auto-injector at all times.

Immunotherapy is a long-term treatment that gradually desensitises a patient to a specific allergen by exposing them to increasing doses over time. It can be delivered as injections (subcutaneous immunotherapy) or drops/tablets placed under the tongue (sublingual immunotherapy). It is used for conditions such as hay fever, insect venom allergy, and some food allergies.

Histamine is a chemical released by mast cells during an allergic response. It causes the classic symptoms of allergy: itching, sneezing, a runny nose, watery eyes, and swelling. Antihistamine medications work by blocking histamine receptors, preventing these symptoms from developing or reducing their severity.

A skin prick test is a common diagnostic procedure in allergology. Small amounts of suspected allergens are placed on the skin, usually the forearm, and the skin is then lightly pricked. If a raised, red weal (wheal) forms within 15 to 20 minutes, it indicates sensitisation to that allergen. The test is quick, relatively painless, and can assess multiple allergens at once.

Atopy is a genetic predisposition to develop allergic conditions such as asthma, eczema, hay fever, and food allergies. It runs in families and often first appears in childhood. Children with atopic parents are significantly more likely to develop at least one atopic condition, though the specific condition may differ between family members.

Urticaria, commonly called hives, is a skin reaction characterised by raised, red, itchy welts that can appear anywhere on the body. It is usually triggered by an allergic reaction to food, medication, insect stings, or environmental allergens. In some cases, urticaria is chronic and persists for more than six weeks without an identifiable allergen trigger.

Desensitisation, or allergen immunotherapy, works by training the immune system to tolerate an allergen rather than overreacting to it. The patient is given very small, gradually increasing doses of the allergen over months or years. Over time, the immune system learns to respond in a regulated way, reducing symptoms and the risk of severe reactions. It does not work for all allergens but is well established for pollens, house dust mites, and insect venoms.

Rhinitis means inflammation of the mucous membrane lining the nose. Allergic rhinitis (hay fever) is caused by an immune reaction to airborne allergens such as pollen, dust mites, or animal dander. Symptoms include sneezing, a blocked or runny nose, and itchy eyes. It is one of the most common allergic conditions worldwide and can significantly affect quality of life.

Allergology vocabulary is practical for anyone who uses English in a medical, healthcare, or everyday context. Being able to read and understand allergy information on food packaging, follow a doctor’s instructions, describe symptoms accurately, or assist a patient with an allergic reaction all require this specialist vocabulary. It is particularly valuable for healthcare workers, medical students, and anyone managing allergies in an English-speaking environment.