Briefly explained: Allergy or intolerance?

Allergies and intolerances are both reactions that occur when your body interacts with certain substances. However, they are different in terms of their underlying mechanisms and the types of symptoms they cause.

An allergy is an immune system reaction to a substance that is typically harmless to most people. The immune system mistakes the substance, known as an allergen, as a threat and responds by releasing histamines and other chemicals, which cause symptoms such as hives, itching, swelling, and difficulty breathing. Allergic reactions can range from mild to severe and may be life-threatening in some cases.

On the other hand, an intolerance is a negative reaction to a substance that does not involve the immune system. Intolerances occur when your body is unable to digest or process certain substances, such as lactose or gluten. The symptoms of intolerances can be similar to allergies, such as bloating, cramps, and diarrhea, but they are generally less severe and do not involve the same type of immune response.

In summary, allergies involve an immune system response to a harmless substance, while intolerances are caused by the body's inability to process certain substances. Allergic reactions can be severe and life-threatening, while intolerances are typically less severe and may cause digestive symptoms.

In contrast to allergies, intolerances can often be positively influenced by osteopathic treatments. Especially by diagnosing and regulating the neuroreceptor activity of the P-DTR model, the problem behind the intolerance can be identified.

Do you have an intolerance and are interested in finding out the cause behind it? Contact us and make an appointment with our osteopath and P-DTR therapist Daniel Arenz.