Final answer:
During an allergic reaction, the immune system reacts to a foreign protein by producing IgE molecules, which trigger the release of histamines.
Step-by-step explanation:
An allergic reaction occurs when the immune system reacts to a foreign protein, such as a nut, by producing IgE molecules. These IgE molecules become associated with mast cells, which release histamines when exposed to the protein.
Histamines trigger the inflammatory response, causing symptoms of an allergic reaction. Antihistamines help alleviate these symptoms by reducing or eliminating the effects of histamines.