“Late-stage allergy” is not a recognized medical term. Allergy, also known as hypersensitivity, is an abnormal immune response to a normally harmless substance, such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or certain foods. Allergies can be categorized into several types, including seasonal allergies (e.g., hay fever), food allergies, drug allergies, and skin allergies (e.g., contact dermatitis).
Allergies are typically classified into four stages:
- Sensitization: In this stage, the immune system is sensitized to an allergen after initial exposure. The immune system recognizes the allergen as foreign and produces specific antibodies, such as immunoglobulin E (IgE), in response.
- Early-stage allergic reaction: Upon re-exposure to the allergen, the immune system releases chemicals, such as histamine, which cause symptoms such as sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and runny nose. These symptoms usually occur soon after exposure to the allergen.
- Late-stage allergic reaction: This stage refers to the more severe and prolonged symptoms that can occur several hours or even days after exposure to the allergen. These symptoms may include persistent congestion, chronic cough, sinusitis, asthma exacerbations, or skin rashes.
- Chronic inflammation: If allergies are left untreated or poorly managed, chronic inflammation may occur, leading to long-term damage to the affected organs, such as the respiratory system in the case of asthma or the skin in the case of chronic dermatitis.
It’s important to note that “late-stage allergy” may not be a commonly used term in medical practice, and it’s always best to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis and management of allergies.
