“Is seasonal allergies a lifelong problem?”
I am 24 years old and I have been on anti allergy medication for seasonal allergies for the past several years. Will I have to live with this problem all through my life?
4 Answers
It certainly can be for some individuals. However, I have seen my patients' allergy profiles/sensitivities change of the years. I'd recommend that you get formal intradermal allergy testing to start. Then, discuss with that physician (allergist/ENT) if desensitization is right for you.
Seasonal allergies usually diminish over a number of years. The immune system begins to recognize the common pollens causing the allergic reaction and the body develops antibodies to overcome the allergic reactions. Generally allergies of the seasonal type diminish with time as the number of the antibodies increase after exposure. There is no standard length of time that one can predict that the degree of sensitivities will diminish.
Allergic issues are usually problematic for a number of years until the immune system "learns" and becomes tolerant of seasonal exacerbations. Usually 5-8 or more years.
The short answer is yes. Depends on what the allergens are and your recurrent exposure. May need to using flonase prophylactically during spring and summer months. Zyrtec is good OTC antihistamine. if more severe problem, see allergist
