Allergies are a common condition caused by an overactive immune system. When certain allergens, such as pollen, dust, or animal dander, come in contact with the body, the immune system reacts by releasing histamine and other chemicals. This can cause a range of unpleasant symptoms, including sneezing, watery eyes, itching, and hives.
While allergies can be a nuisance, the good news is that they can also disappear. Here, we look at why allergies may disappear and how long it typically takes.
What Causes Allergies to Disappear?
Allergies are caused by the body's immune system mistakenly reacting to a harmless substance. The immune system then develops antibodies to fight off the allergen, causing inflammation and other uncomfortable symptoms.
In some cases, the body can become desensitized to the allergen, meaning that it no longer causes the same reaction. This is known as immunotherapy, and it is often used to treat allergies in the long term.
Immunotherapy works by gradually introducing the allergen to the body in increasing doses. This allows the body to build up a tolerance to the allergen, meaning that it no longer causes the same reaction.
How Long Does it Take for Allergies to Disappear?
The amount of time it takes for allergies to disappear depends on the person and the type of allergy. Generally, it can take several months or even years of treatment before an allergy is eliminated.
Immunotherapy is usually done in two phases. During the first phase, the patient is given increasing doses of the allergen every 3-4 weeks. Once the patient is desensitized, the second phase begins. This phase involves maintaining the desensitization by taking the allergen every 3-4 months.
Can Allergies Return After They Disappear?
Unfortunately, allergies can return after they have disappeared. This is because the body can build up a tolerance to the allergen, but it is not a cure. In some cases, the allergy may return after treatment is stopped, or the allergen may still cause a reaction in other forms, such as in food or contact with a pet.
Conclusion
Allergies can be a nuisance, but the good news is that they can also disappear. Immunotherapy is the most common form of treatment and involves gradually introducing the allergen to the body in increasing doses. It typically takes several months or years of treatment before an allergy is eliminated, but unfortunately, allergies can still return after they have disappeared.
