Allergies, including asthma, eczema, and food allergies, are increasingly common in today's modern world, affecting around 12% of children in the Western world. While genetics contribute, they are not the only factor behind allergies. This article delves into the underlying causes of allergic diseases and how they vary with the seasons.
The Body's Policemen: The Immune System
The immune system acts as the body's defense mechanism, protecting it from external threats. Some immune cells, TH1 cells, guard against bacteria and viruses, while others, TH2 cells, protect against parasites. The optimal functioning of both cell groups is crucial for a healthy immune response.
The Role of Pregnancy
During pregnancy, a woman's immune system adjusts to support the development of the fetus. TH1 cells are suppressed to prevent the mother's body from attacking the embryo, while TH2 cells are heightened to protect against parasites. At birth, the baby's immune system mirrors the mother's during pregnancy, with high TH2 activity and suppressed TH1 cells. However, exposure to bacteria after birth is necessary to activate TH1 cells and restore immune system balance.
Cleaner Isn't Necessarily Better
Modern environments have become increasingly sterile, thanks to antibacterial products and excessive sanitization. While cleanliness is important, excessive sterility deprives infants of exposure to beneficial bacteria required to stimulate TH1 cell activity. Consequently, hyper-vigilant TH2 cells may perceive harmless substances as threats, leading to a rise in allergies. This phenomenon is known as the hygiene hypothesis.
Counteracting Allergies
Understanding the importance of exposure to the right bacteria at the right time is crucial in preventing allergies.
Controlled exposure to potential allergens allows the immune system to adapt and develop tolerance. Therefore, it is beneficial to strike a balance between cleanliness and providing opportunities for natural exposure to bacteria.
Seasonal Variations in Allergies
Allergies aren’t the same year-round—they vary with the seasons. Understanding these variations can help you manage symptoms better. Here are some more common allergens that are seasonal:
Spring
Tree pollen from oak, maple, and birch can trigger allergies.
Summer
Grasses and mold thrive, causing allergic reactions.
Fall
Ragweed pollen peaks, leading to worsened symptoms.
Winter
Indoor allergens like dust and mold become more prominent.
Key Takeaways and Action Steps
Allergies are complex conditions influenced by various factors. At MyOr, we pair children with dietitians and nutritionists to navigate these complexities, and to aid in the prevention and management of food allergies and atopic dermatitis in children. We believe in striking a balance between cleanliness and exposure to potential allergens to support a child's immune system development. We invite you to fill out our survey or book an appointment and take the first step toward a future with fewer allergies and an improved quality of life for your child.
By following these steps and understanding the causes and variations of allergies, you can better manage and potentially reduce allergic reactions in your children. Remember, the key is balance- maintaining a clean environment while allowing for natural exposure to beneficial bacteria. This approach can help strengthen your child's immune system and reduce the likelihood of developing allergies