Allergy and psyche are connected

For many allergy sufferers, alarm bells ring when a possible pollen flight is announced. The first itch in the nose relieves stress and the immune system weakens. In the worst case, the pollen flight hits the allergy sufferer with unnecessary intensity. On the other hand, those who are more relaxed about the allergy-causing stimuli have a better chance of experiencing the outbreak less severely. A therapeutic approach to treatment that takes the psyche of the affected allergy sufferer into account can therefore be more successful than simply combating the cause. This has long been known in pediatric medicine and is used in the treatment of allergies. In adult medicine, the psyche usually plays no role in the treatment of allergy symptoms.

severity of the allergy due to Stress conditionally

It has been proven that an immune system weakened by stress also has a negative effect on the severity of an allergy. In pediatric medicine, possible psychological problems, such as difficulties at school or the separation of parents, are taken into account in young patients with atopic dermatitis or severe Asthma taken into account in the treatment. In many cases, pediatricians recommend accompanying psychotherapeutic treatment to alleviate the symptoms of the allergy. This is because psychological stress weakens the immune system. The allergy-prone body does not have sufficient defenses to counteract the allergy-causing substances. It does not matter what triggers the stress. In adult patients, the fear of the allergen that causes the illness - whether pollen, gluten, lactose, fructose or something else - can lead to hypersensitivity. The result is uncertainty in the patient. For example, because not all protective mechanisms can be observed or because the patient instinctively waits the whole time for the symptoms to appear. The consequences of the emotional reaction are increased symptoms of asthma, hay fever, rashes, digestive disorders and other ailments. However, those who approach the allergy-causing factors in a relaxed manner will generally experience the symptoms less severely.

Psycho-Neuro-Immunology as a Therapeutic Approach

The aim is not to sugarcoat the allergy. Ultimately, even a stress-free approach to the allergy cannot usually cure it. The aim of psycho-neuro-immunology is rather to strong psyche to positively influence the effects of allergic reactions. This assumption is based on the proven fact that the nervous and immune systems are connected. This means that messenger substances such as interleukins, endorphins and the stress hormones cortisol and adrenaline are interdependent and can be used specifically in the treatment of allergies. Anyone who applies the findings of psycho-neuro-immunology can therefore better survive the next allergy attack with a few tricks and a little practice.

Tips for a strong psyche when allergies occur

Keep an anti-allergy diary. Record the psychological state in which the symptoms are at their weakest. This will help you develop a long-term strategy to avoid negative situations if possible. Also ensure moments of relaxation and peace in your everyday life. Don't listen when the next pollen forecast or other warnings come. Trust your body instead. If the symptoms are severe, you can always look for the causes (of course, this does not apply to life-threatening allergies such as those caused by certain foods or active ingredients). Trick yourself and imagine a glass wall in your body that acts like a protective shield. Studies by psycho-allergists have shown success with this method. Do not overreact under any circumstances. Most allergens are not poison, but natural substances. If all else fails, seek out a psychotherapeutic counseling center or a psychotherapist if your fears about allergens are too great.