What are sensitivities to substances known as?

Sensitivities to substances are known as allergies. Allergies occur when the immune system reacts to a foreign substance, which can be anything from certain foods to environmental factors like pollen or pet dander. This immune response triggers a variety of symptoms, which can range from mild to severe, reflecting the body's heightened sensitivity to the allergen.

Understanding allergies is crucial, especially in early childhood, as young children are particularly vulnerable to allergic reactions. Educators and caregivers must be aware of a child's specific allergies to ensure a safe environment and to prevent exposure to triggering substances. This knowledge allows for proactive measures, such as preparing appropriate meals for children with food allergies or managing environmental factors that could provoke an allergic response.

On the other hand, intolerances typically refer to adverse reactions to substances that do not involve the immune system, while deficiencies relate to a lack of a specific nutrient or vitamin in the body. Reactions can encompass a wider range of responses than just allergies, as they might include non-specific responses to various stimuli. This distinction illustrates why "allergies" is the most precise term for sensitivities that involve the immune system's response to certain substances.