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Real members of myHIVteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

HIV and seasonal allergies

A myHIVteam Member asked a question 💭
New Brunswick, NJ

It’s allergy season and my eyes are watering,sneezing,fatigue etc. anyone know if HIV makes seasonal allergies worse? And do they affect viral load or cd counts? I’m taking an antihistamine but still feel uggg😵‍💫

May 9, 2024 (edited)
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Answer Summary

Members shared mixed perspectives on whether HIV worsens seasonal allergies, with most agreeing that allergies themselves don't seem directly... Read more

Members shared mixed perspectives on whether HIV worsens seasonal allergies, with most agreeing that allergies themselves don't seem directly affected by HIV status, though some noticed their symptoms have intensified over time due to age or environmental factors rather than the virus. Several members found relief through a combination of Flonase nasal spray, antihistamines like Allegra or cetirizine, Singulair, and eye drops, while others explored alternative approaches such as eliminating dairy or drinking nettle tea daily. A recurring theme was the importance of distinguishing between normal aging, environmental changes, and HIV-related health issues, with members emphasizing that while HIV causes inflammation, seasonal allergies primarily involve a different part of the immune system and don't typically affect viral load or CD4 counts.

A myHIVteam Member

There are two wings of the immune system, inflammation & cellular. HIV affects the cellular response; the immune library of vaccinations & prior exposures. Covid affects the inflammatory response, making it go haywire.

Allergies are primarily inflammation, so really not the part of the immune system affected by HIV (except for anaphylactic reactions, like a peanut allergy).

May 10, 2024
A myHIVteam Member

I don't think hiv makes it worse either well at least for me

May 9, 2024
A myHIVteam Member

No. In 33 years I have not noticed any change in my seasonal allergies due to HIV. That being said, my allergies have worsened as I have gotten older, but I believe that to be age-related or even location related.
I make sure to always have a bottle of cetirizine on hand, as well as antihistamine eye drops and an allergy nasal spray. Between the three, I get good results and am able to manage my allergies pretty well.

May 10, 2024
A myHIVteam Member

I have all year-round allergies, LOL. Everyone is different when it comes to their HIV and allergies. I do not think HIV makes them worse you can see an allergist to find out.

May 9, 2024
A myHIVteam Member

There does seem to be a tendency to blame all health issues post HIV diagnosis on HIV. But in truth; that isn't necessarily the case.

May 10, 2024

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