Many patients ask: “Is my allergy because of hormones?” or “Why does my allergy get worse during periods or pregnancy?” In this video, Dr. Dipak Viradia, Chest Physician & Intensivist, explains the link between allergy and hormones, and what it means for treatment.

Allergy is an immune problem, not a hormonal disease. Allergy happens when the immune system overreacts to harmless substances such as dust mites, pollen, mould or pet dander, producing IgE antibodies and releasing chemicals like histamine. Hormonal imbalance does not cause allergy by itself.

But hormones can influence allergy and asthma. Hormones like oestrogen and progesterone affect the immune system and the lining of the nose and airways. That’s why many people notice their symptoms change at certain stages of life:

• Childhood and puberty: in childhood, asthma is more common in boys. After puberty, it becomes more common in women, which suggests hormones play a role.
• Periods: some women notice their asthma or nasal allergy worsening just before or during their periods. This is called perimenstrual asthma.
• Pregnancy: a blocked or runny nose is common during pregnancy, sometimes without any allergy (pregnancy rhinitis). Asthma may improve, worsen, or stay the same during pregnancy, so regular monitoring is important.
• Menopause: some women develop new asthma or notice changes in their symptoms around menopause.
• Thyroid disease: long-lasting hives (chronic urticaria) are more common in people with autoimmune thyroid conditions, so doctors sometimes check thyroid tests in such patients.

Can hormonal treatment cure allergy? No. Hormonal tablets are not a treatment for allergy. Allergy is controlled by identifying and avoiding triggers, using the right medicines, and allergen immunotherapy in selected patients.

Allergy and asthma treatment during pregnancy. Never stop asthma or allergy medicines on your own during pregnancy. Uncontrolled asthma is more harmful to the mother and baby than most prescribed inhalers and nasal sprays. Consult your doctor so treatment can be adjusted safely.

When to consult a doctor: if your allergy or asthma symptoms change with your periods, worsen during pregnancy, start for the first time around menopause, or if you have hives that keep coming back for weeks.

Dr. Dipak Viradia
Chest Physician & Intensivist | Interventional Pulmonologist & ECMO Specialist
Rudrax Chest Clinic, 301, Solaris Royce, Opp. Old RTO, Athwagate, Ring Road, Surat – 395001
Appointment: +91 75676 19985
Website: www.drdipakviradia.com