Can allergies be permanently cured?
July 20, 2023 | 20,00 EUR | answered by Petra Netz
Dear Doctor,
my name is Eva Höhne and I have been suffering from various allergies for years, which greatly affect my daily life. Especially during the pollen season, I struggle with strong symptoms such as itching, sneezing, and breathing problems. Certain foods also trigger allergic reactions in me, which are very burdensome.
I have already tried various treatment methods, including antihistamines and corticosteroid nasal sprays. Although they have provided me with temporary relief, the symptoms reappear whenever I come into contact with the allergens.
I am worried that my allergies will remain permanent and continue to impact my life. Therefore, I would like to know if it is possible to permanently cure allergies. Are there new treatment options or medications that can help in the long term? What steps can I take to effectively manage my allergies in the long run?
I would greatly appreciate your expertise and advice to finally find a long-term solution to my allergy problems. Thank you in advance for your support.
Sincerely,
Eva Höhne
Dear Eva Höhne,
Thank you for your detailed message and your trust in my expertise as an allergist. I am sorry to hear that you have been suffering from various allergies for years and that they are significantly impacting your daily life. Allergic reactions can be truly burdensome, especially when they recur frequently and cannot be fully controlled.
Firstly, I want to assure you that you are not alone in your concerns. Many people suffer from allergies and face similar challenges to yours. It is important that you do not give up and continue to seek solutions to effectively manage your allergy problems in the long term.
Regarding your question about whether allergies can be permanently cured: Unfortunately, there is currently no way to completely cure allergies. Allergies are an overreaction of the immune system to normally harmless substances, such as pollen or certain foods. The immune system responds to these substances by producing antibodies, which then lead to typical allergic symptoms.
However, there are various treatment options that can help you to control and reduce your allergy symptoms in the long term. One of the most well-known therapies is desensitization, also known as allergy immunotherapy. In this treatment, you will be regularly exposed to increasing amounts of the allergen over a long period of time to gradually desensitize your immune system. This therapy can help to decrease your allergy symptoms in the long term and make you less susceptible to allergic reactions.
There are also various medications that can help alleviate your allergy symptoms. In addition to antihistamines and corticosteroid nasal sprays, there are also newer medications on the market specifically developed for the treatment of allergies. These medications can help you better control your symptoms and make your daily life easier.
It is important to also assess your lifestyle and environment to reduce your allergy symptoms. Avoid contact with allergens as much as possible, such as pollen or certain foods. Maintain a healthy diet, get enough exercise, and ensure sufficient sleep to strengthen your immune system and reduce your allergy symptoms.
I strongly recommend scheduling an appointment with an allergist in your area to receive an accurate diagnosis of your allergies and develop an individualized treatment strategy. An experienced allergist can help you find the most suitable therapy for you and effectively manage your allergy symptoms in the long term.
I hope that my information is helpful to you and encourages you not to give up but to continue seeking solutions for your allergy problems. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions or need additional support. I am here to assist you in coping with your allergies.
Best regards,
Petra Netz
