Does it always seem like you wake up with a runny nose, sneezing at the most inopportune times – right before a big deadline or presentation? A new study says the stress developed because of those important events could actually be what causes your allergy symptoms to flare.
How do they relate?
A study published in the Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, found that stress can trigger flare-ups in people with seasonal allergies.
Researchers studied 179 people with hay fever for 12 weeks. Thirty-nine percent had at least one flare-up during the study, and all of those patients had higher stress levels than those who showed no symptoms. Sixty-four percent of those with higher stress levels had more than four flare-ups across two 14-day periods.
The study did not find a link between higher stress and allergy symptoms on the same day, but rather found increased flare-ups within days of increased daily stress.
In a similar study in 2008, participants completed various stressors and then underwent skin-prick tests afterward. They found that the study participants who were highly stressed were four times more likely to have a stronger skin test one day later. This “late-phase reaction” shows an ongoing and strengthening response to the allergens, which antihistamines, the most common allergy medication, don’t treat.
Researchers say patients may be setting themselves for more persistent problems by becoming stressed or anxious when allergy symptoms first occur.
How to Cope
Try to not let the early signs of an allergy attack cause more stress. Researchers say that allergy symptoms – runny nose, itchy eyes, and congestion can cause anxiety, and in turn make the flare-up worse.
Allergy sufferers should try to alleviate stress wherever possible. Patients should first consult with a physician on proper treatment, especially if suffering frequently. In addition to over-the-counter medication, there are prescription medication options and allergy shots (immunotherapy).
Researchers also suggest methods for coping with the stress itself including meditation, deep breathing, and making time for fun and relaxation.
Do you feel stress worsens allergy symptoms? If you’re an allergist, do you address stress levels with your patients? If you’re an M.D. or D.O., we’d love to hear more from you inside Sermo.
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