Do Allergic Diseases and Allergy Medications Pose a Risk for Coronavirus?

While the new coronavirus continues to cause concern in the world, it has also caused some questions that concern allergy sufferers. Many patients question whether allergic diseases and the drugs they use affect the coronavirus. So what do the experts say about the subject? President of Allergy Asthma Society, Pediatric Allergy and Immunology Specialist Prof. Dr. Ahmet Akcay explained.

How the new coronavirus (COVID-19) affects allergy sufferers is not yet well known. However, with the arrival of the spring season, there is a possibility of getting coronavirus infection more easily, especially for those with allergies to pollen and eye allergies. The reason for this is; Especially in these days when pollen emerges, people with pollen allergy often bring their hands to their nose and eyes and sneeze.

HOW DOES CORONAVIRUS EFFECT ON ALLERGY DISEASES?

An allergic person who is in contact with the coronavirus, which can be in many places such as mobile phone, door handle, stair railing; he will bring his hand to his eyes and nose more often. As a result of this; The risk of contracting coronavirus disease will be greater. At the same time, someone with coronavirus will also transmit more viruses due to frequent sneezing and excessive runny nose. As a result, coronavirus; It can be transmitted more easily to those with allergies, and allergy sufferers can spread it more around them. Therefore; It will be very useful for those who have allergies to pollen not to be outdoors, to wash their hands more often, to wear a mask, and if possible to wipe their nose and eyes with the outside of their hands.

DO ALLERGIC DISEASES RISK FOR CORONAVIRUS?

In the cases reported in China, in hospitalized patients due to the new coronavirus; It has been reported that there are no allergic diseases such as asthma, allergic rhinitis and food allergy. It has been reported that there are very few patients with drug allergies and urticaria.

ARE PATIENTS WITH ALLERGIES MORE RESISTANT TO CORONAVIRUS?

Unfortunately, the information that allergy sufferers have stronger immunity and are protected from coronavirus is unfortunately not true. The immune system of those with allergies works more against allergens, not against germs. Therefore; It has no effect on protection from coronavirus.

HOW DO THE SYMPTOMS OF CORONAVIRUS DISEASE BE DIFFERENT FROM THE SYMPTOMS OF ALLERGY?

In coronavirus disease; cough, shortness of breath, fever and sore throat, while allergic rhinitis; frequent sneezing, watery eyes, runny nose are in the foreground and fever is not usually in question. Fever, headache and muscle pain are symptoms that help us distinguish allergic diseases.

DOES THE USE OF ANTI-HISTAMINICS STRENGTHEN THE IMMUNITY OF THOSE WITH ALLERGIES?

It does not weaken. On the contrary, it can be beneficial. Especially in those with pollen allergy; nose itching, colds and sneezing can cause the virus to spread more easily. Therefore; If you have symptoms of allergic rhinitis, it will be useful to consult your doctor and use an antihistamine. Use disposable tissue when blowing your nose. Use a mask when using public transport, and soap your hands often.

ARE CORTISONE NOSE SPRAYS RISKY FOR CORONAVIRUS?

It is not risky. On the contrary, cortisone nasal sprays will increase the resistance as they will correct the nasal mucosa of those with allergic rhinitis. Therefore, if your doctor has recommended a cortisone nasal spray, it will be beneficial for you to continue.

WHAT SHOULD THOSE WITH ALLERGIES USE AS A FEVER REDUCER?

Since there is information about “ibuprofen” that poses a risk for coronavirus, it would be more beneficial to use antipyretics containing “paracetamol”.

WHAT SHOULD THOSE WITH ALLERGIES USE TO STRENGTHEN IMMUNITY TO CORONAVIRUS?

Drink plenty of fluids and fresh juice. Eat as little red meat as possible. You can take vitamin and mineral supplements, beta glucan, omega 3 fish oil that strengthens the immune system. Also, exercise at home for at least 20-30 minutes every day and get regular sleep. Listen to good music and pay attention to hygiene. Keep your morale high. These applications will be useful in protecting from coronavirus.

DOES THE ALLERGY VACCINE INCREASE THE RISK OF catching CORONAVIRUS?

Wear a mask when going to the clinic for allergy vaccination treatment. Try not to use public transport. If you are going to use public transport, it will be useful to wear a mask. Wash your hands with soap and water after coming to the clinic. Do not come into contact with other patients after vaccination.

SHOULD I DELAY IMMUNOTHERAPY TREATMENT TO PROTECT FROM CORNAVIRUS?

If allergy vaccination is just to be started, you can delay your vaccination for 1-2 months. If you are vaccinated once a week, do not miss your vaccination. Wear a mask when going to the clinic for allergy vaccination treatment. Try not to use public transport. If you are going to use public transport, it will be useful to wear a mask. After coming to the clinic, wash your hands with soapy water. Do not come into contact with other patients after vaccination.

Remember, while your vaccination is done once a week, your vaccination can be delayed for a week. However, if there is a break for more than 2 weeks, it will be necessary to start from the first dose. If it is done once a month, it can be delayed for 3 weeks. You may run the risk of restarting your vaccine if it is delayed longer.

To sum up;

Allergic diseases do not increase the risk of coronavirus.
Those with allergic rhinitis and eye allergies should use the outer surfaces of their hands for itchy nose and eye itching.
Disposable wipes should be used while sneezing, otherwise it will be useful to use the inner surface of their arms.
If those with allergic rhinitis are allergic to pollen, you can use antihistamines and nasal sprays in consultation with your doctor to prevent itching and sneezing.
If you are using cortisone nasal spray for allergic rhinitis, do not stop without consulting your doctor.
Pay attention to your nutrition, vitamin support, regular sleep and exercise to keep your immunity high.