what is histamine

what is histamine

1 year ago 35
Nature

Histamine is a chemical compound that is involved in local immune responses, communication between cells, and regulating physiological functions in the gut. It acts as a neurotransmitter for the brain, spinal cord, and uterus. Histamine is mainly known for its role in causing allergy symptoms, but it has other important functions as well. Here are some key points about histamine:

  • Histamine is a signaling chemical that your immune system releases to send messages between different cells.
  • Histamine is stored in mast cells in tissues and basophils in blood.
  • When a person is exposed to an allergen, such as pollen or dust, the immune system starts a chain reaction that prompts some of the bodys cells to release histamine and other chemicals into the bloodstream. The histamine then acts on a persons eyes, nose, throat, lungs, skin, or gastrointestinal tract, causing allergy symptoms.
  • Histamine plays a central role in several allergic conditions, including atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, allergic rhinitis, and allergic asthma.
  • Histamine can cause inflammation, which lets other chemicals from your immune system step in to do repair work.
  • Histamine also regulates a variety of physiological functions by playing a key role in the inflammatory response of the body.
  • Healthcare providers recommend or prescribe medications called antihistamines to help manage histamine levels in your body.

In summary, histamine is a chemical compound that is involved in local immune responses, communication between cells, and regulating physiological functions in the gut. It is mainly known for its role in causing allergy symptoms, but it has other important functions as well.

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