Uncovering the Complex Connection Between Allergies and Brain Health
If you’ve ever experienced an allergic reaction, you’ll know it’s not a pleasant experience. They occur due to an immune system response to a whole range of substances in our environment. This blog post explores the surprising link between allergies and cognitive function and discusses the implications of that connection on our brain health.
Allergic reactions: what’s happening?
Some substances in our environment that are typically harmless such as certain foods, pollen, dust mites, or medications can cause our immune systems to react abnormally, causing an allergic reaction. This leads to the release of chemicals such as histamine, which can trigger a range of symptoms including itching, rashes, sneezing, and, in some cases, more severe effects such as anaphylaxis. Some allergies are associated with certain established conditions, such as hay fever, or allergic rhinitis, eczema, and asthma.
Where does the brain link come in?
Studies have revealed a compelling connection between the brain and allergic reactions, sometimes called immune neuronal disorders.
Research has shown that short and long-term neurological processes can be affected by allergies, including memory, attention and processing speed, mental flexibility, and mood.
What could be causing the connection?
The exact cause of the link between allergies and brain health is not perfectly clear, however, there are several hypotheses currently under investigation. These include:
Allergies as an inflammatory response extending to the brain and leading to neuroinflammation. The BBB (blood-brain barrier) acts as a protective shield ensuring that harmful substances from the bloodstream don’t enter the brain. Chronic inflammation may cause this barrier to become “leaky”.
Disruptions in sleep cycles caused by allergic reactions may affect cognition.
Chronic stress associated with managing allergy symptoms could contribute to cognitive impairment over time. Increased levels of the stress hormone cortisol have been tied to changes in brain function and structure.
What does this mean for brain health?
Although the exact mechanisms underpinning the link between cognitive function and allergies are not 100% certain, the fact that there is a connection means that it can be addressed. Ongoing studies into how allergies work from a neurological perspective aim to improve current management strategies for allergy sufferers and shed new light on potential cognitive interventions that may help to mitigate them.