How Does COVID-19 Affect Patients with Allergies?

Istanbul Okan University Hospital pediatric allergist and immunologist Prof. Dr. Ahmet Akçay explained how patients with allergies are affected by coronavirus. How COVID-19 affects those with allergies is not yet well understood. However, with the arrival of spring, particularly those with allergic rhinitis and eye allergy to pollen have a higher likelihood of contracting coronavirus infection. The reason is that those with pollen allergy frequently touch their nose and eyes and sneeze, especially on these days when pollen appears.

How does coronavirus affect allergic diseases?

An allergic person who comes into contact with coronavirus found in many places such as mobile phones, door handles and stair railings will touch their eyes and nose more frequently. As a result, the risk of contracting coronavirus disease will be higher. Similarly, a person carrying coronavirus will spread more virus to the surroundings due to frequent sneezing and excessive nasal discharge. As a result, coronavirus can more easily spread to those with allergies and allergic patients can spread it more to those around them. For this reason, those with allergic rhinitis to pollen should avoid being in outdoor environments, wash their hands more frequently and wear masks, and if possible, wipe their nose and eyes with the outer surface of their hands, which will be very helpful.

Do allergic diseases pose a risk for coronavirus?

In cases reported from China, among patients hospitalized due to the novel coronavirus, it was reported that allergic diseases such as asthma, allergic rhinitis and food allergies were not present. It was reported that only a small number of patients had drug allergy and urticaria. Are allergic patients more resistant to coronavirus? Unfortunately, the information that allergic patients have stronger immunity and are protected from coronavirus is not correct. In those with allergies, the immune system works more against allergens, not against microbes. For this reason, it has no effect on protection against coronavirus.

How are coronavirus disease symptoms distinguished from allergy symptoms?

In coronavirus disease, cough, shortness of breath, fever and sore throat are prominent, while in allergic rhinitis, frequent sneezing, watery eyes and nasal discharge are prominent and generally there is no fever. Fever, headache and muscle pain are symptoms that help us in distinguishing allergic diseases.

Does antihistamine use in allergic patients weaken immunity?

It does not. On the contrary, it can be beneficial. Particularly in those with pollen allergy, nasal itching, rhinitis and sneezing can facilitate easier virus transmission. For this reason, if you have allergic rhinitis symptoms, it will be beneficial to use antihistamines after consulting your doctor. Use single-use tissue when wiping your nose. Wear a mask when using public transport and frequently wash your hands with soap.

Are corticosteroid nasal sprays risky for coronavirus?

They are not risky. On the contrary, corticosteroid nasal sprays will improve the nasal mucosa of those with allergic rhinitis and increase resistance. For this reason, if your doctor has recommended a corticosteroid nasal spray, it will be beneficial to continue using it.

What should allergic patients use as fever reducer?

Since there is information that "ibuprofen" poses a risk for coronavirus, it will be more beneficial to use fever reducers containing "paracetamol".

What should allergic patients use to strengthen immunity against coronavirus?

Consume plenty of fluids and fresh fruit juice. Consume red meat in small amounts if possible. You can take vitamin and mineral supplements, beta glucan which strengthens the immune system, and omega 3 fish oil. Also, exercise at home for at least 20-30 minutes daily and sleep regularly. Listen to good music and pay attention to hygiene. Keep your morale high. These practices will be helpful in protecting against coronavirus.

Does allergy immunotherapy increase the risk of contracting coronavirus?

Wear a mask when going to the clinic for allergy immunotherapy. Try not to use public transport. If you will use public transport, wearing a mask will be beneficial. After arriving at the clinic, wash your hands with soap and water. Do not contact other patients after the injection.

Should immunotherapy treatment be postponed to protect against coronavirus?

If allergy immunotherapy is to be started newly, you can postpone your injection by 1-2 months. If your injection is done once a week, do not skip your injection. Wear a mask when going to the clinic for allergy immunotherapy. Try not to use public transport. If you will use public transport, wearing a mask will be beneficial. After arriving at the clinic, wash your hands with soapy water. Do not contact other patients after the injection. Remember that while your injection is administered once a week, your injection can be delayed by one week. However, if more than 2 weeks pass, you will need to start from the first dose. If done monthly, it can be postponed for 3 weeks. If postponed longer, you may risk having to restart your injection.

To summarize:

• Allergic diseases do not increase coronavirus risk.
• Those with allergic rhinitis and eye allergy should use the outer surface of their hands when scratching their nose and eyes.
• Single-use tissue should be used during sneezing, otherwise using the inner surface of their arms will be helpful.
• Those with allergic rhinitis can use antihistamines and nasal spray after consulting their doctor to prevent nasal itching and sneezing if they have pollen allergy.
• If you are using corticosteroid nasal spray due to allergic rhinitis, do not stop it without consulting your doctor.
• To keep your immunity high, pay attention to your diet, vitamin supplementation, regular sleep and exercise.