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Stress And Anxiety Worsen And Extend Allergy Attacks

dandelion_allergyIn a new contribution to the field of psychoneuroimmunology, researchers at Ohio State University report that stress and anxiety worsen allergy attacks, even to routine allergens. Anxiety impacts not only the severity of the response, but also causes a “carry over” effect whereby allergies linger into a second day. The researchers also explore the connections between allergies and asthma.

The Serious Nature of Allergies
Gailen Marshall, a co-investigator on the project and professor of medicine and pediatrics at the University of Mississippi, pointed out the seriousness nature of some allergies, stating that “Late phase reactions also occur in allergic asthma and can, in the proper settings, be potentially life-threatening.” He concluded that “The results of this study should alert practitioners and patients alike to the adverse effects of stress on allergic reactions in the nose, chest, skin and other organs that may seemingly resolve within a few minutes to hours after starting, but may reappear the nest day when least expected.”

Psychological Treatments And Reduced Allergies?
One logical conclusion that can be drawn from this study is that psychological treatments which lower stress and anxiety can also positively influence allergies. This is total speculation, of course, but if true, common behavioral medicine treatments such as biofeedback, neurofeedback, cranial electrotherapy stimulation (CES), and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) might reduce the intensity and duration of allergy attacks. Sounds like a great research project or even a dissertation for an energetic doctoral student with the time and interest!

Visit Stress, Anxiety Can Make Allergy Attacks Even More Miserable and Last Longer

Enjoy.

CFisher

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