Leukotrienes are responsible for cases of chronic inflammatory reactions. They are a derivative of arachidonic acid. That acid is an essential and unsaturated fatty acid of which the human body needs a small amount in order to function.
Leukotrienes helpful and harmful derivatives
Too much arachidonic acid produces too many leukotrienes. As a result, the body becomes hypersensitive to antigens and produces extreme allergic reactions such as hay fever and asthma. Triggers, which vary from person to person, activate the leukotrienes. Typically these are allergens such as pollen, pet dander or dust. Cold air often triggers inflammation.
Positive and negative effect
Like histamine, leukotrienes are one of the inflammatory molecular types within the body and have a beneficial role in the immune system. They ensure a balance of IgE antibodies. Their presence in the immune system is positive and negative. They affect the bronchial (air) and vascular (blood) components of the body, causing inflammatory reactions in the skin and intestines.
Leukotrienes are part of the eicosanoids . These are potent molecules. These are biologically responsible for signaling to nearby cells that an antigen has entered the body. Eicosanoids contain the leukotrienes that help the body fight off the invaders.
They restrict air or blood flow depending on the type of antigen. The immune system responds provided the leukotrienes find the potentially harmful organism or substance. Pests include dust mites, pet dander and infections. Leukotrienes cause an immune response in a specific area of the body. This reaction is designed to neutralize or displace the harmful organisms or substance. In this way, the derivatives indirectly protect the body from damage.
defense against the disease
Leukotrienes help the body fight disease in a number of ways. They cause white blood cells to build up at the site of infection. White blood cells are responsible for destroying potential pathogens such as bacteria and fungi.
Leukotrienes prolong the life of white blood cells and increase the activity of macrophages . These are cells that consume pathogenic invaders. When enough leukotrienes are present, the body benefits from a healthy and productive immune response. A lack of leukotrienes indicates a higher susceptibility to infections. Experts link the deficit to diseases such as HIV. Inflammation is a normal immune system response. Physical resources are concentrated in one area to heal an injury or infection. Leukotrienes stimulate inflammation, allowing the body to heal faster.
Leukotrienes and their role in pathology
In pathology, experts primarily associate leukotrienes with the occurrence of asthma attacks and increased sensitivity to allergens. They cause the immune system to overreact to perceived attacks.
Leukotrienes narrow the airways while causing muscle spasms. Both make it difficult for the person affected to breathe during an asthma attack. The messengers cause inflammation and increase mucus production, which makes the problem worse. Allergy sufferers notice the effects of leukotrienes due to nasal congestion. It causes dilated blood vessels in the nose. As a result, nasal tissue swells and nasal allergies appear.
Inhibitory drugs and natural supplements
It is advisable to avoid known allergens and irritants. Exposure to these substances triggers the production of leukotrienes in the body. Sufferers use over-the-counter medications.
These drugs block leukotrienes by halting the body’s response to the allergen. Patients use another drug that inhibits leukotrienes when OTC drugs are ineffective. Prescription drugs help stop the production of leukotrienes.
Other drugs act as antagonists, blocking the effects of these chemical messengers that the body is producing. People visit their doctor and ask if any of these drugs are appropriate for their situation. Patients use a natural supplement, such as butterbur extract, to decrease the production or anti-inflammatory effects of the leukotrienes. It helps sufferers to consult with an alternative health practitioner to learn if these herbs are helpful.
Medical note for our readers:
Our patient information explains medical topics in a simple and understandable way. Our information is not a substitute for a medical examination. Please see a specialist for diagnosis or treatment.
