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Vocabulary matching
Pronunciation
The first time you watch the video, pay special attention to the correct pronunciation of the following words:
Seasonal allergies, also called hay fever, or allergic rhinitis, are a hypersensitive immune response to something that’s not actually harmful.
This triggers the cell to release inflammatory chemicals, like histamine, which stimulate nerve cells, and cause blood vessels in the mucous membranes to swell and leak fluid.
Called the hygiene hypothesis, the idea is that when the immune system isn’t exposed to the familiar cast of microbes, it’ll keep itself busy mounting defenses against harmless substances, like pollen.
Another theory is that an immune system toughened up by a barrage of pathogens is less likely to overreact to allergens.
The body can even have an allergic reaction to itself causing auto-immune disorders, like multiple sclerosis, lupus, and type 1 diabetes.
Comprehension questions
Video: Tips for dealing with spring allergy symptoms
Video: Why are some adults developing allergies?
Video: What’s a food allergy – and what it is not
Article: Common allergies
Article: Anaphylaxis
