Stress and Allergy

मनश्शरीरयोस्ताप: परस्परमभिवजेत् l
आधाराधेयभावेन तप्ताज्यघठयोरिव ll

Stress is the tension felt by physical or emotional reasons. It results in an abnormal body response to a particular situation. Allergy is also an abnormal body reaction towards some uncomfortable factors, called as allergens. Both stress and allergy cause changes in normal body functions and subsequent manifestations on body. In Ayurveda, mind and body are equally important in maintaining health. If mind is exposed to any abnormal situation, the corresponding changes will be exhibited on body also. 

Relation Between Stress and Allergy

When a person is exposed to some stressful condition, the body produces certain chemicals called histamines that exacerbate allergic reactions in body. Stress may not directly result in development of allergic signs; but it can worsen the situation.  On continuous stress, body produces the stress induced hormone cortisol. Chronic elevation of cortisol weakens the body’s immune system. This results in increased proliferation of virus and bacteria and resultant ailments.