CNN Central News & Network-ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: Why allergies worsen with changing weather: the connection with nerve memory
As the weather changes, problems such as sneezing, a runny nose, itchy eyes and red rashes on the skin begin troubling many people. These symptoms are usually linked to pollen, dust, mould and changing temperatures. But a new study led by scientists from Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital has offered a new way to understand allergies. According to the research, after exposure to allergy-causing substances, the body’s sensory nerve cells, or sensory neurons, can also develop a kind of biological memory. This may make the response more intense the next time the body comes into contact with a similar allergen.
What does the new research say? The study was published in the scientific journal Immunity on September 22, 2026. In experiments conducted on mice, researchers found that initial exposure to certain allergens can cause changes in sensory nerve cells. Because of these changes, the cells begin to respond more actively when they encounter the allergen again in the future. The research also observed changes in the energy-producing structures inside cells, known as mitochondria. This put the nerve cells into a kind of alert state. According to the scientists, this process may help explain why some allergic reactions become more severe after repeated exposure.
What role do nerves play in allergies? Until now, allergies have mainly been understood as a reaction of the immune system. Immune components such as IgE antibodies and mast cells play an important role in this process. The new research suggests that sensory nerves may also influence the beginning and intensity of the process. When the body comes into contact with an allergen, nerve cells can activate signals that promote the immune system’s response. The study also found that nerve cells sensitised by exposure to one type of allergen may react more strongly to some other allergens as well. This may help explain why some people develop more than one type of allergy.
Can allergies be eliminated forever? During the research, scientists found that the sensitivity developed in nerve cells may weaken over time. The experiments also indicated possibilities of reducing the response by influencing certain biological signals and cellular processes. However, this research is still based on early scientific understanding and animal studies. More studies are needed to determine whether the same process can be safely controlled in humans to permanently eliminate allergies. At present, it cannot be considered a proven treatment for allergies.
How can people protect themselves from allergies when the weather changes? During seasonal changes, it can be useful to reduce exposure to possible triggers such as dust, pollen and mould. Washing the face and hands after coming indoors, preventing dust from accumulating at home and seeking medical advice when needed can help. People who experience allergies repeatedly should consult a doctor instead of taking medicines on their own. In case of severe breathing difficulty or sudden swelling of the throat and face, emergency medical help should be sought immediately.
Hashtags: #Health #Bhopal #Allergies #ChangingWeather #NerveMemory #SensoryNeurons #Allergens #HarvardMedicalSchool #MassachusettsGeneralHospital #Immunity
