Although common, allergies can interfere with a person’s ability to complete daily tasks, and symptoms can cause them to avoid social interactions. This article examines the impact of allergies on mental health. What does the research say? Do doctors treat the disease comprehensively?
Allergies are widespread. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of AmericaMore than 50 million people experience allergy symptoms each year.
People living with allergies. can be prone to experience mental health disorders, such as anxiety and depression. The correlation between mental health and allergies is an ongoing debate, but recent studies have shed light on parallels that may improve treatment for patients.
Allergies themselves can have a significant impact about a person’s mental health. Why is this the case, and how can the medical community broaden the conversation to avoid stigmatizing allergies?
allergies they are an immune system reaction to a foreign substance, also known as an allergen. The immune system releases antibodies to protect the body from these allergens.
An allergic reaction can develop due to food or environmental factors. According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunologyallergies are the sixth leading cause of chronic disease in the US.
Common allergy symptoms can include:
- itchy eyes
- sneezing, sniffing, and coughing
- urticariathat form a raised rash
- heavy mouth breathing
- wheezing and shortness of breath
- Headaches
- coughing
Serious symptoms may also include:
- ear pain and ear infections
- nosebleed
- Gastrointestinal disorders.
Although common, allergies can be difficult to diagnose because symptoms can resemble other medical problems. There is no specific cure for allergies, but treatment can minimize symptoms.
Allergy medicines, called antihistamines — are designed to improve symptoms, but side effects include drowsiness that can interfere with daily activities and sleep patterns.
some researchers believe that inflammatory substances that cause allergic reactions in the body may also affect the brain, playing a role in the development of depression and anxiety.
Similarly, for a person living with a mental health condition, the symptoms of an allergic reaction can increase levels of cortisolthe stress hormone.
AN study 2019 from the Sackler School of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Israel, and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, UK, among others, found that atopics treated eczema is associated with a 14% increased risk of developing depression and a 17% increased risk of a subsequent diagnosis of anxiety.
Its authors concluded that “[t]These results highlight the importance of a comprehensive biopsychosocial approach to limit common mental disorders in people with atopic eczema and could guide recommendations for the management of atopic eczema.”
Allergy symptoms involve an external and noticeable reaction of the body. Consequently, until 53% of adults living with allergies prevents social interactions, which can lead to isolation and a lower quality of life, according to recent survey data from Allergy UK.
Additionally, symptoms can interfere with regular sleep cycles, contributing to physical decline. fatigue and worsening mental health conditions.
According to the same Allergy UK survey, 52% of people living with allergies felt the need to minimize symptoms due to fear of judgment from family, friends or an employer, leading to feelings of fear, isolation and depression.
Parents of children with allergies also experience mental stress, with 54% indicating they felt anxious about their child having a possible allergic reaction while dining out.
For children, severe allergy symptoms can interfere with outdoor activities, while food allergies may trigger stress around their peers at school and limit social gatherings.
AN 2016 study examining the behavioral changes of children with allergic diseases concluded that “[t]The increasing number of allergic diseases with internalizing behaviors at the age of 7 years has substantial clinical implications, as children may develop anxiety or depression later in life.
AN study 2018 also found a strong correlation between seasonal allergies and mood disorders. An important implication of this study is the need for early comprehensive care when referring and evaluating children and young adults with allergies for mental health problems as a preventative measure.
Nevertheless, Rahmah Albugamiclinical director and outpatient professional counselor at doing wellness said Today’s medical news that:
“For the findings to be generalizable, health disparities such as age, race, gender, special health care needs, and geographic location must be considered to expand future research.”
Some communities may be less likely to have access to preventive care. Expanding the research groups to include historically underserved communities, which are less likely to control allergic disease through access to professional health care, may shed light on the socioeconomic determinants that play a role in seeking and accessing appropriate treatment. .
Since allergies are linked to inflammationDoctors recommend that patients follow a anti-inflammatory diet high in fiber, omega-3 and probiotics. Add fresh fruits and vegetables stuffed with antioxidants It will also stimulate the immune system.
Avoiding fragrances like perfume and candles can also help eliminate triggers.
Doctors also encourage adults and children to lead an active lifestyle that contributes to both physical and emotional well-being.
In addition to identifying and treating physical symptoms, doctors encourage people with allergies to be open about any mental health symptoms they may be experiencing.
Talking with a mental health professional can help reduce stress levels and provide tools for emotional management. Some people can also find encouragement by connecting with others dealing with similar conditions.
The correlation between allergies and mental health is not a common topic of discussion, which sadly contributes to the stigma around allergies.
According to Albugami, recent research “impl[ies] that there is a direct correlation between mental and physical well-being and that each exists in sync with each other.”
“This illustrates that the human experience must be evaluated holistically,” he added.
Dismantling the stigma surrounding allergies and mental health starts with equipping patients to identify and understand symptoms, both physical and psychological.
