Seasonal Allergies and the Immune System: What You Need to Know

Spring is in the air, and misery is on its way for seasonal allergy sufferers across the country. Itchy watery eyes, excessive sneezing, mucus accumulation, and congestion are just a few allergy symptoms that have so many of us pleading for an ounce of relief. That is why starting this week I’m switching topics from Immunity to seasonal allergies, in the next month, I will be covering simple and natural 

ways I have found that helped me and my clients to relieve symptoms without taking the nasty season allergy meds that are out there. Let’s first finish up our immune system series talking about what is the role that your immune system plays in allergic reactions

Allergies are one of the most common chronic health conditions in the world. Allergies can range from Hay fever (allergic rhinitis), eczema, hives, asthma, and food allergy. Allergy symptoms can vary from mild to a severe reaction like in the case of anaphylaxis.

Allergies are the outcome of your immune system’s response to a harmless substance such as dust, mold, or pollen. You become allergic when your body develops antigens against a substance, and the immune system may overreact by producing antibodies that "attack" the allergen this causes wheezing, itching, runny nose, watery or itchy eyes, and other symptoms. And unfortunately it is common that upon repeated exposure the severity of the reaction may increase.

​These allergens can be inhaled, ingested, or enter through the skin. Seasonal allergic reactions, such as hay fever, are trigger by antibody produced by the body called immunoglobulin E (IgE). Note that a person can be allergic to one type of pollen, but not another. Also, symptoms of an allergic reaction will vary depending on the type and amount of allergen encountered and how the body's immune system reacts to that allergen.

You may be able to lessen the impact of seasonal allergies by building your body's defenses against them. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is one of the best things you can do to mitigate the effects of allergy symptoms as it is a well-known fact that a person that is in good shape and has a robust immune system can withstand the impact of allergies better than someone who has other illnesses and has weaken immunity. 

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to strengthen your immune system despite your allergies. Check out my last post for a list of lifestyle suggestions to boost your immune system. Other recommendations to improve your immune system and fight allergy symptoms include:

• Get plenty of rest. A healthy night’s rest stimulates the immune system and keeps stress levels down.

• Exercise regularly.​ but If you are sensitive to outdoor allergens like pollen, you may want to exercise when pollen levels are at their highest. Instead do indoor yoga, aerobics, qi-gong, etc.

• Manage stress. If you're under chronic stress, allergies are going to be a bigger problem for you, try stress reduction techniques like meditation, breathing exercises, tai chi, qi-going.

• Find ways to laugh more. Studies have shown that humor may enhance immune function by boosting levels of immunoglobulin A (IgA), a protein found in your eyes, ears, mouth, throat, and nose that shields against infection. So, have fun, go to a comedy show, see a funny movie, hang out with friends. This not only boost your immune system, but it also reduces stress and helps you enjoy life more.

• Minimize exposure to allergens. As much as possible create an environment that supports you during allergy season to keep allergy symptoms at bay. For example use an air conditioner instead of opening a window or wearing protective gear when you must be outside, run a humidifier, and diffuse essential oils in your house known to help relieve congestion and support the respiratory system. After being outside, wash your hair and change your clothing.

​Stay tune in the upcoming weeks; I will be talking about foods, herbs and other lifestyle changes that can help treat and ease the pain of seasonal allergies.

Regards,
​Toni