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Acquired Immunity
Acquired (adaptive) immunity develops when the body is exposed to various antigens. It involves a specific type of white blood cells called lymphocyte. There are two types of lymphocytes.

B lymphocytes (also called B cells) produce antibodies. Antibodies attach to a specific antigen and make it easier for the phagocytes to destroy the antigen. T lymphocytes (T cells) upon encountering antigen activate a number of effective systems which ultimately destroy the antigen. At the same time, the response creates the reserve of the memory cells for future demand. This allows the immune system to respond faster and more efficiently the next time you are exposed to the same antigen.

Body’s Response to Allergens
When an allergen enters the body of a person with a sensitized immune system, it triggers antibody production. Histamine and other chemicals are released by body tissues as part of the immune response. This causes itching, swelling of affected tissues, mucus production, muscle spasms, hives and rashes, and other symptoms. Symptoms vary in severity from person to person.

The part of the body contacted by the allergen will partly also affect symptoms. For example, allergens that are inhaled often cause nasal congestion, itchy nose/throat, mucus production, coughing, wheezing, or similar symptoms. Food allergies often include abdominal pain, cramping, or similar symptoms, although the whole body may be affected when the food is absorbed. Allergies to plants often cause skin rash. Drug allergies usually involve the whole body. Many disorders are associated with, triggered, or worsened by allergies. These include hay fever, eczema, asthma.

Read more: Articles on Allergy