Allergies are a regular issue for countless Americans and can be a significant source of discomfort and stress. It’s important to seek both allergy relief and stress relief during flare-ups. Research suggests that stress has an impact on reactions, and making positive changes could be an answer to many of your problems.

How Does Stress Affect Your Immune System?

Allergic reactions occur when an allergen, like mold spores, pollen, or dust mites, enters your system. Your immune system overreacts and identifies them as serious threats, when in most cases, they’re harmless. Sneezing, skin rashes, watery eyes, and more are a few symptoms, and they can range from mild and infrequent to requiring immediate medical attention.

Worrying about allergies and dealing with symptoms is stressful. Research suggests that the emotional response of stress could worsen the body’s reaction to allergens and intensify symptoms. This is because of the immune system responding more severely due to stress hormones and histamine—which leads to allergy symptoms—in the body. Some research has shown the reactions may be more frequent and severe in stressed patients, which is why it’s important to control your levels.

How Can You Reduce Stress?

You can first reduce stress by taking control of allergy relief. See a holistic allergist to pinpoint what you’re actually allergic to and to explore medical and holistic treatment options. The sense of control usually helps patients feel less stressed about their allergies.

At the same time, make lifestyle changes to lower stress. Practice meditation and deep-breathing once a day to calm your mind. Go to the gym when you’re feeling mentally beat, or write down your thoughts in a stress journal throughout the day. Many people find relief spending time with friends and family, while others use music or art to channel their stress creatively.

Making positive dietary changes can also impact stress. Cut back on caffeine and avoid stimulants like nicotine. Try to eat vegetables rich in vitamins A, E, and C that will regulate stress-causing chemicals, and take an omega-3 fatty acid supplement to prevent deficiency-related stress. All of these changes take practice, but with time, can help you achieve less stress and allergy relief.

If you’re exploring solutions to allergies, contact St. Louis Allergy Relief Center of Chesterfield, MO. These professionals focus on natural allergy relief and will help pinpoint what’s affecting you. They’ll then recommend holistic solutions for seasonal allergies, which you can learn more about on their website, or call (314) 384-9304 to schedule an exam.