Researchers from Ohio State University in Columbus (USA) found a link between stress and allergies.

The scientists published the results of their study in the new issue of the Annals of Allergy, Asthma \u0026 Immunology..

Allergies occur in a person when their immune system overreacts to mostly harmless foreign substances (allergens), releasing a number of active compounds, such as histamine, which cause well-known symptoms..

Drugs, foods, insect venom, molds, animal dander, and pollen are the most common allergens that can worsen pre-existing conditions, including eczema, asthma, and sinus problems..

Allergies are treated with many different drugs, including antihistamines, corticosteroids, decongestants, leukotriene receptor antagonists. In some cases, even immunotherapy is used..

Allergies are not caused by stress per se, but stress seems to make them worse..

“Allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose and watery eyes can be distressing to sufferers and can be stressful for some.. Relieving stress will not cure allergies, but it can reduce the number of episodes and the intensity of symptoms,” says Dr. Amber Patterson..

To confirm this, a team of scientists followed 179 patients for 12 weeks.. During this time, 39% of participants had more than one allergy flare-up. Researchers found that participants with recurring allergy episodes were more stressed.

Some facts about allergies:.

• Children sometimes outgrow allergies, especially food allergies..

• Exposure to certain allergens (dust, wool) in the first year of life protects the child from allergies in the future.

• Breastfeeding in the first 6 months of life helps prevent allergies.

Although no clear link has been established between stress and immediate allergic flare-ups, many people report that their allergic disease tends to get worse in the days following a stressful event..

“Stress has various negative effects on the body.. Our study also found that people with more frequent allergy flares were more negative and stressed,” says Patterson..

This study suggests that allergy sufferers should minimize stress in their daily lives..

Scientists recommend the following approaches for this:.

• Meditation.

• Breathing techniques.

• Stop smoking, caffeine and stimulants.

• Making time for entertainment and hobbies.

• Complete rest from work.

• Healthy lifestyle.

James Sublett, president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, notes that allergists can help, too: “Allergy sufferers can get relief by being seen regularly by a certified allergist.. He will help you develop an action plan to avoid triggers and use the treatment that best suits your needs.”.

medbe. en.