Allergic Triggers in Graves’ Disease

The immune stimulation caused by the allergic reaction causes immune system changes that trigger and worsen Graves' disease. 

Allergic Triggers

Allergies are a well-known trigger in the autoimmune hyperthyroid disorder Graves' disease. The sustained hyper-alert response in people with seasonal or food allergies leads to an erratic autoimmune response. In Japan allergies to cedar pollen have long been considered the most significant contributor to Graves' disease. In the United States seasonal allergies to ragweed, pollen and food allergens are considered common contributing factors for Graves' disease.

Allergic reactions in subjects worldwide have been shown to contribute to the development of Graves' disease and to cause disease flares in patients on anti-thyroid drugs. Relapses in patients already in remission from Graves' disease are also linked to allergic triggers. The mechanism in which allergies trigger GD can be demonstrated with blood tests.

Immune System Markers

Both elevated eosinophil counts and elevated levels of immunoglobulin E (IgE) are markers of the allergic disease process. Eosinophils are white blood cells that secrete various toxins intended to destroy foreign substances. Studies have also shown that elevated IgE and eosinophil levels directly correlate with the severity of symptoms and the occurrence of relapses in patients with Graves' disease. In studies of patients with Graves' disease and allergic rhinitis, a dramatic increase in TSH receptor antibodies is seen two months after an attack of allergic rhinitis.

Allergic Rhinitis

An attack of allergic rhinitis is typically associated with symptoms of sneezing and runny nose. But these symptoms may vary. Some patients may have headaches, nasal stuffiness, snoring and other symptoms not typically associated with allergies. Or they may demonstrate an increased eosinophil count in routine blood counts that precede the increase in symptoms.

Food Sensitivities

People with food sensitivities can have an array of atypical symptoms such as behavioral disturbances, mood changes, bloating, indigestion, nausea or constipation that they don't associate with a particular food.  

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