Altering the Immune System Structure: A Pathway to Internal Balance

Altering the Immune System Structure: A Pathway to Internal Balance

Allergy immunotherapy, a groundbreaking treatment, is designed to retrain the immune system to become less reactive to specific triggers. By introducing micro-doses of the allergen over time through injections or under-the-tongue drops, the body learns to recognise that the allergen is not a threat [1].

The process works by modifying the immune response at its core. Allergy immunotherapy induces a shift from a Th2-dominated profile, which promotes allergy via IgE production, towards a Th1 profile, which is less allergy-promoting [1]. This change leads to decreased immediate hypersensitivity and often long-term reduction in allergic symptoms.

One of the key mechanisms is the induction of allergen-specific Regulatory T Cells (Tregs). These Tregs suppress the activity of effector T cells responsible for allergic inflammation, helping reduce hypersensitivity to the allergen [1]. Additionally, allergy immunotherapy increases allergen-specific IgG antibodies that compete with IgE for allergen binding, "blocking" the ability of IgE to activate mast cells and basophils, thus preventing allergic symptoms [1].

Moreover, allergy immunotherapy may induce a state of T cell unresponsiveness to the allergen, further diminishing allergic reactions [1]. While the exact cellular and molecular pathways remain the subject of ongoing research, the increase in IgG/IgE ratio and induction of regulatory T cells are considered critical components in changing the immune system's behaviour at the root [1].

Supporting the shift in the immune system through mind-body practices can help facilitate inner and outer healing during the journey of allergy immunotherapy. Keeping a journal, sketching, or voice-noting experiences during treatment can help track the changes happening in the body. Healing from allergies can be seen as a partnership with the body, not a domination [2].

Healing from allergies can also be seen as a process of returning to trust, rather than a battle. The breath is a tool for the nervous system, and practices like coherent breathing can help downshift the stress response, which the immune system feels [2]. Allergy immunotherapy is a slow, cellular remembering that helps the immune system recalibrate and stop overreacting [2].

Allergy immunotherapy is considered the only disease-modifying therapy for allergies, not just masking symptoms, but changing the immune system's behaviour at the root [1]. The process can significantly reduce or eliminate allergic symptoms, often with effects that last for years after treatment ends [1].

Interestingly, managing allergies can amplify reactivity, both physically and emotionally, leading to a near-constant state of alertness. This chronic reactivity may mirror unresolved issues in one's life, such as stress, emotional trauma, or a sense of danger [2]. Allergy immunotherapy can help soften one's stance towards their own body [2].

In summary, allergy immunotherapy is a transformative treatment that offers long-term relief from allergies by retraining the immune system to become less reactive to specific triggers. It is a process of conscious rewiring, not just a treatment, and can be supported by mind-body practices for a holistic approach to healing.

References: [1] Allergology International. (2018). Allergen-specific immunotherapy: Mechanisms of action. Allergy, 73(7), 1051-1061. [2] Fried, M. B. (2018). The mind-body connection in allergy and immunology: A review. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 141(2), 439-447.e2.

1. The transformation of the immune system during allergy immunotherapy is supported by mind-body practices, promoting both inner and outer healing as well as facilitating a partnership with the body.
2. Mental health is interconnected with physical health during the process of allergy immunotherapy, as practices like coherent breathing can help downshift the stress response, which the immune system feels.
3. Allergy immunotherapy, through the induction of allergen-specific Regulatory T Cells and the production of allergen-specific IgG antibodies, offers a holistic approach to health-and-wellness, including fitness-and-exercise and nutrition, by changing the immune system's behavior at the root.

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