CHEM 183 Study Guide - Midterm Guide: Allergic Contact Dermatitis, Allergic Rhinitis, Latex Allergy

• School: McGill University
• Department: Chemistry
• Course: CHEM 183
• Professor: Joe Schwarcz

Document Summary

Allergy: any adverse reaction to a substance that is generally harmless to most people. Mistake that the immune systems make, perceives a substance to be dangerous when it is not. Can develop at anytime, in some cases child allergies may be outgrown. 10 20% of the population suffers from some sort of allergy (probably more) Anaphylaxis: ultimate allergic reaction rapidly progressing and life threatening, causes blood pressure problems and circulatory issues. Reactions can occur within a few minutes of contact to an allergen, death can ensue. Epipen contains adrenalin (epinephrine) can temporarily reverse an anaphylactic reaction, only buys time does not stop the reaction permanently. Atopy: genetic tendency to develop classic allergic diseases (atopic dermatitis, allergic rhinitis, asthma, food allergies) People with an atopic nature are more prone to these diseases based on genetics. Better at diagnosing disease, people are more likely to see a doctor.