Vocabulary Words Every Allergist Should Know

Allergy

Definition: A reaction to something that is usually harmless.

• She has an allergy to peanuts and must avoid them.
• His allergy made it hard to play outside in the spring.
• The doctor gave her medicine for her allergy.

Allergy in a sentence

Asthma

Definition: A respiratory condition that causes difficulty in breathing.

• He has asthma and uses an inhaler.
• She learned how to manage her asthma during sports.
• Asthma can be triggered by allergens or exercise.

Asthma in a sentence

Sneeze

Definition: To expel air from the nose and mouth suddenly, often due to irritation.

• I sneeze when I have allergies.
• He covered his mouth when he had to sneeze.
• She said “Bless you” after he sneezed.

Sneeze in a sentence

Nose

Definition: the part of the face used for smelling and breathing

• She wrinkled her nose at the strong smell.
• His nose was red from the cold weather.
• The dog uses its nose to find hidden treats.

Nose in a sentence

Pollen

Definition: Fine powder produced by flowering plants; essential for reproduction and often carried by wind or insects.

• Bees collect pollen from flowers to make honey.
• She is allergic to pollen during the spring.
• The pollen spread through the air during the blooming season.

Pollen in a sentence

Dust

Definition: Fine, dry particles that settle on surfaces; to remove dust from something.

• There was dust on the shelf after a week.
• She needs to dust the furniture regularly.
• He used a cloth to dust the table.

Dust in a sentence

Pet

Definition: A small animal kept at home for companionship.

• I have a pet dog named Max.
• She loves to play with her pet cat.
• A rabbit can be a great pet for kids.

Pet in a sentence

Food

Definition: Any substance that can be eaten.

• I love Italian food.
• Healthy food is important for our bodies.
• They prepared a lot of food for the party.

Food in a sentence

Itch

Definition: A sensation that makes you want to scratch; a mild irritation.

• I have an itch on my arm from the mosquito bite.
• He felt an itch on his back and asked for help.
• The wool sweater gave her an itch after wearing it.

Itch in a sentence

Rash

Definition: A sudden outbreak of spots or red marks on the skin; also means hasty or reckless.

• She developed a rash after using a new soap.
• Making a rash decision can lead to mistakes.
• The doctor examined the rash on his arm.

Rash in a sentence

Medicine

Definition: A substance used to treat illness or injury.

• I took medicine to help with my cold.
• The doctor prescribed some medicine for her.
• It's important to take medicine as directed.

Medicine in a sentence

Doctor

Definition: A person who is trained to treat medical conditions.

• The doctor helps people stay healthy.
• I went to the doctor for a check-up.
• She wants to be a doctor when she grows up.

Doctor in a sentence

Clinic

Definition: A place where people receive medical treatment.

• He visited the clinic for a check-up.
• The clinic offers free vaccinations.
• The clinic is open every Saturday.

Clinic in a sentence

Test

Definition: A method of assessing knowledge or skills; an examination.

• She studied hard for the math test next week.
• He passed the driving test on his first try.
• The teacher gave a pop quiz as a test of understanding.

Test in a sentence

Treatment

Definition: The way of dealing with a patient or condition; care given to someone.

• He received treatment for his illness.
• The treatment helped her recover quickly.
• They discussed treatment options with the doctor.

Treatment in a sentence

Reaction

Definition: A response to something; how someone feels or acts in response to an event.

• Her reaction to the surprise was joyful.
• He had a strong reaction to the news.
• The chemical reaction produced gas bubbles.

Reaction in a sentence

Health

Definition: The state of being free from illness or injury.

• Eating fruits and vegetables is good for your health.
• Regular exercise helps improve your health.
• We should take care of our mental health as well.

Health in a sentence

Breathe

Definition: to take air into and out of the lungs

• Remember to breathe deeply when you relax.
• He can't breathe well because of the cold.
• She learned to breathe slowly during yoga.

Breathe in a sentence

Itchy

Definition: Causing an uncomfortable sensation that makes you want to scratch.

• My new shirt is itchy and uncomfortable.
• He had an itchy rash after being outside.
• The mosquito bites made her skin feel itchy.

Itchy in a sentence

Safe

Definition: Free from harm or danger.

• It is important to keep our home safe.
• Always wear a helmet to stay safe while biking.
• This is a safe place for kids to play.

Safe in a sentence

Patient

Definition: Able to wait without getting angry.

• She is very patient with her students.
• It's important to be patient when learning.
• He waited patiently for his turn.

Patient in a sentence

Symptoms

Definition: physical or mental signs of an illness

• Common symptoms of the flu include fever and cough.
• He noted the symptoms and reported them to the doctor.
• She learned to recognize the symptoms of allergies.

Cough

Definition: The act of forcing air from the lungs suddenly, often to clear the throat.

• He had a persistent cough that worried his parents.
• Coughing can be a sign of a cold or allergies.
• She tried to suppress her cough during the lecture.

Cough in a sentence

Help

Definition: To assist someone with something.

• Can you help me with my homework?
• She helped her mother in the kitchen.
• He always helps his friends.

Help in a sentence

Allergen

Definition: A substance that causes an allergic reaction.

• Pollen is a common allergen for many people.
• He is careful to avoid allergens in his food.
• Identifying the allergen was crucial for her health.

Allergen in a sentence

Medication

Definition: A substance used to treat an illness or condition.

• He takes medication for his allergies.
• The doctor prescribed medication for her cough.
• She learned about different types of medication.

Medication in a sentence

Immune

Definition: protected from a disease

• She was immune to the virus after getting vaccinated.
• His body is immune to certain infections.
• Being immune means you can resist the disease.

Immune in a sentence

Skin

Definition: The outer layer of tissue covering the body of a person or animal.

• My skin gets dry in the winter.
• She used lotion to keep her skin soft.
• The skin protects our bodies from germs.

Skin in a sentence

Diagnosis

Definition: The identification of a disease or problem based on symptoms.

• The doctor made a diagnosis after the exam.
• She received a diagnosis of a mild illness.
• He explained the diagnosis to the patient.

Diagnosis in a sentence

Exposure

Definition: The state of being exposed to something; the experience of something new.

• He had exposure to different cultures during his travels.
• The artist gained exposure through her exhibitions.
• She was worried about the exposure to cold weather.

Exposure in a sentence

Prevention

Definition: the act of stopping something from happening

• Prevention is key to staying healthy.
• He learned about disease prevention in health class.
• She advocates for the prevention of bullying.

Prevention in a sentence

Histamine

Definition: A chemical in the body involved in allergic reactions and immune responses.

• Histamine release can cause allergy symptoms.
• He took medication to block histamine effects.
• Understanding histamine is important for allergy sufferers.

Histamine in a sentence

Eczema

Definition: A skin condition that causes redness, itching, and inflammation.

• He has eczema that flares up during the winter.
• She applied cream to soothe her eczema.
• Understanding eczema helps in managing symptoms.

Eczema in a sentence

Anaphylaxis

Definition: A severe allergic reaction that can be life-threatening.

• He carried an EpiPen in case of anaphylaxis.
• Symptoms of anaphylaxis include swelling and difficulty breathing.
• Quick action is essential during anaphylaxis.

Anaphylaxis in a sentence

Intolerance

Definition: Lack of acceptance for beliefs or behaviors different from one's own; unwillingness to accept differences.

• Intolerance can lead to conflict and division.
• She spoke against intolerance in her community.
• Fighting intolerance is important for a peaceful society.

Intolerance in a sentence

Trigger

Definition: To cause something to happen; an event that initiates an action.

• Loud noises can trigger a response in some animals.
• The alarm will trigger if there is smoke.
• Remember to trigger your creativity when brainstorming.

Trigger in a sentence

Antihistamine

Definition: A medication that relieves allergy symptoms.

• He took an antihistamine for his hay fever.
• Antihistamines can help with sneezing and itching.
• She always keeps antihistamines handy during spring.

Antihistamine in a sentence

Immunology

Definition: The study of the immune system and how it protects the body.

• Immunology is crucial for developing vaccines.
• She is pursuing a career in immunology to help fight diseases.
• The immunology research focused on new treatments for allergies.

Immunology in a sentence

Sensitivity

Definition: the quality of being sensitive or responsive

• Her sensitivity to others’ feelings makes her a good friend.
• He has a high sensitivity to loud noises.
• Sensitivity is important in discussing personal topics.

Sensitivity in a sentence

Desensitization

Definition: The process of becoming less sensitive or reactive to stimuli, often due to repeated exposure.

• Desensitization to loud noises can occur over time.
• They discussed the effects of desensitization in therapy.
• Desensitization can help people cope with anxiety.

Desensitization in a sentence

Inflammation

Definition: The body's response to injury or infection, causing redness and swelling.

• The doctor treated her for inflammation in her knee.
• Inflammation can be painful and limit movement.
• He learned about inflammation in health class.

Inflammation in a sentence

Respiratory

Definition: Related to breathing or the lungs.

• The respiratory system is vital for our health.
• She studies respiratory diseases in her research.
• Respiratory exercises can improve lung function.

Respiratory in a sentence

Skin Test

Definition: A method used to check for allergies or infections by applying substances to the skin.

• The doctor performed a skin test to check for allergies.
• She was nervous about the skin test results.
• A skin test can help diagnose certain conditions.

Hypersensitivity

Definition: An exaggerated response to a stimulus, often causing discomfort.

• Hypersensitivity can result in allergic reactions.
• She has hypersensitivity to certain foods.
• Managing hypersensitivity is important for her health.

Hypersensitivity in a sentence

Atopy

Definition: the genetic predisposition to develop allergic diseases

• Atopy can lead to various allergic reactions.
• People with atopy often have hay fever.
• Understanding atopy can help manage allergies better.

Atopy in a sentence

Mast Cells

Definition: Plural of mast cell; immune cells involved in allergic reactions.

• Mast cells can cause symptoms like itching and swelling.
• He studied the role of mast cells in the immune system.
• Mast cells are important in understanding allergies.

Cytokines

Definition: Proteins that are important for cell signaling in the immune system.

• Cytokines help cells communicate during immune responses.
• High levels of certain cytokines can indicate inflammation.
• Studying cytokines enhances our understanding of diseases.

Rhinitis

Definition: inflammation of the nasal mucous membrane

• Rhinitis can cause sneezing and a runny nose.
• He suffers from rhinitis during allergy season.
• Understanding rhinitis is important for managing symptoms.

Rhinitis in a sentence

Dermatitis

Definition: inflammation of the skin, often causing redness and irritation

• He suffered from dermatitis due to allergies.
• Dermatitis can be treated with creams and medications.
• Understanding dermatitis helps in prevention.

Dermatitis in a sentence

Urticaria

Definition: A skin condition characterized by hives or welts, often due to an allergic reaction.

• She developed urticaria after eating shellfish.
• Urticaria can cause itching and discomfort.
• Understanding urticaria helps in managing allergies.

Urticaria in a sentence

Bronchoconstriction

Definition: Narrowing of the bronchial tubes, making it hard to breathe.

• Bronchoconstriction can occur during an asthma attack.
• He learned how to manage bronchoconstriction.
• Certain allergens can trigger bronchoconstriction.

Bronchoconstriction in a sentence

Eosinophils

Definition: Plural of eosinophil; white blood cells that help combat parasites and allergic reactions.

• High levels of eosinophils can indicate allergies.
• The doctor checked his eosinophils during the exam.
• Understanding eosinophils aids in medical diagnosis.

Dander

Definition: Tiny flakes of skin shed by animals, which can cause allergies.

• Cat dander can trigger allergic reactions in some people.
• She cleaned to reduce pet dander in the house.
• Dander can be a concern for allergy sufferers.

Dander in a sentence

Cross-reactivity

Definition: A situation where an immune response to one substance also reacts to another similar substance.

• Cross-reactivity can complicate allergy testing.
• He studied cross-reactivity in his biology course.
• Understanding cross-reactivity is important for health professionals.

Patch Testing

Definition: The process of applying substances to the skin to identify allergies.

• He underwent patch testing to find out what caused his rash.
• Patch testing helps determine safe products to use.
• She learned about patch testing in her health class.

Intradermal Testing

Definition: A medical test where a substance is injected just under the skin.

• Intradermal testing is often used for allergy diagnosis.
• The doctor performed intradermal testing for allergies.
• She was nervous about the intradermal testing results.

Epinephrine

Definition: A hormone also known as adrenaline, used in emergencies to treat severe allergic reactions.

• Epinephrine is often administered during anaphylaxis.
• He carried an epinephrine auto-injector for safety.
• Understanding epinephrine's effects is important for healthcare.

Epinephrine in a sentence

Corticosteroids

Definition: Plural of corticosteroid; hormones that reduce inflammation.

• Corticosteroids can help manage chronic illnesses.
• Athletes sometimes misuse corticosteroids for performance.
• She learned about corticosteroids in her medical class.

Leukotrienes

Definition: plural of leukotriene; chemicals that play a role in inflammation

• Leukotrienes are important in allergic reactions.
• High levels of leukotrienes can cause breathing issues.
• The doctor explained how leukotrienes affect asthma.

Immunotherapy

Definition: a treatment that stimulates the immune system to fight diseases

• Immunotherapy is often used for cancer treatment.
• He learned about immunotherapy in his biology class.
• The clinic offers immunotherapy for patients with allergies.

Immunotherapy in a sentence

Allergenic

Definition: Capable of causing an allergic reaction.

• Some foods are more allergenic than others.
• The doctor recommended avoiding allergenic substances.
• Testing for allergenic materials can prevent reactions.

Allergenic in a sentence

Sensitization

Definition: the process of becoming sensitive to a substance

• Sensitization can lead to allergic reactions.
• He experienced sensitization after repeated exposure.
• The study focused on the sensitization of the immune system.

Sensitization in a sentence

Prophylaxis

Definition: Preventive treatment to protect against disease.

• Vaccination is a form of prophylaxis against illness.
• The doctor recommended prophylaxis for travelers.
• Prophylaxis can reduce the risk of infection.

Prophylaxis in a sentence

Mast Cell

Definition: A type of immune cell that plays a role in allergic reactions and inflammation.

• Mast cells release chemicals during allergic responses.
• She learned about mast cells in her biology class.
• Understanding mast cells is important for allergy research.

Mast Cell in a sentence

Cytokine

Definition: A type of protein that helps regulate immune responses.

• Cytokines play a crucial role in the body's defense against infection.
• The study focused on how cytokines affect inflammation.
• Understanding cytokines is important in immunology.

Cytokine in a sentence

Leukotriene

Definition: a chemical in the body involved in inflammatory responses

• Leukotrienes can contribute to asthma symptoms.
• The medication targets leukotrienes to reduce inflammation.
• They studied the effects of leukotrienes on allergies.

Leukotriene in a sentence

Eosinophil

Definition: A type of white blood cell involved in the immune response, especially during allergies.

• Eosinophils play a role in fighting infections.
• He learned about eosinophils in his health class.
• Understanding eosinophils is important for allergy management.

Eosinophil in a sentence

Serum-specific IgE

Definition: an antibody that indicates an allergy

• Testing for serum-specific IgE helps diagnose allergies.
• He learned about serum-specific IgE in his studies.
• The doctor checked the serum-specific IgE levels.

Environmental Triggers

Definition: Factors in the environment that can cause changes in behavior or health.

• Environmental triggers can affect allergy sufferers.
• He learned about environmental triggers in his science class.
• Understanding environmental triggers is important for health management.

Corticosteroid

Definition: A type of steroid hormone produced by the adrenal cortex.

• Corticosteroids are often used to reduce inflammation.
• The doctor prescribed a corticosteroid for her allergy.
• Corticosteroids can be helpful for various medical conditions.

Corticosteroid in a sentence

Bronchial Hyperreactivity

Definition: Exaggerated response of the bronchial tubes to stimuli.

• Asthmatics often experience bronchial hyperreactivity.
• Bronchial hyperreactivity can lead to wheezing.
• He learned about bronchial hyperreactivity in his training.

Allergology

Definition: The branch of medicine that focuses on allergies.

• He is studying allergology to become a specialist.
• Allergology is important for understanding immune responses.
• The conference covered recent advances in allergology.

Allergology in a sentence

Autoimmunity

Definition: The condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body.

• Autoimmunity can lead to chronic health issues.
• He learned about autoimmunity in his biology class.
• Research on autoimmunity helps develop better therapies.

Autoimmunity in a sentence