Michigan Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

What best defines an allergy?

1. A benign reaction to food

2. A reaction due to extreme sensitivity to substances

3. A general health condition

4. A minor skin irritation

The correct answer is: A reaction due to extreme sensitivity to substances

An allergy is defined as a reaction due to extreme sensitivity to substances, typically referred to as allergens. These allergens can trigger the body's immune response, leading to various symptoms that can affect the respiratory system, skin, and digestive system, among others. The immune system overreacts to these normally harmless substances, such as pollen, dust mites, certain foods, or animal dander, resulting in symptoms that can range from mild discomfort to severe reactions. In contrast, a benign reaction to food does not encompass the immune response involved in allergies, as it implies a non-harmful or minor reaction. A general health condition includes a broad spectrum of medical issues that are not specifically tied to the immune response characteristic of allergies. Lastly, a minor skin irritation might occur due to various factors, including environmental or chemical irritants, but does not necessarily indicate an allergic reaction, which would involve a stronger immune system response. Hence, the definition emphasizing extreme sensitivity captures the essence of what an allergy truly entails.