Anyone else with the Acid Reflux-Allergic Rhinitis-Allergy Asthma & Urticaria/Hives Problem?

Health & Wellness Respiratory
1

Symptoms

  • GERD (acid reflux) – Even while on Esomeprazole, my GERD symptoms worsen if I miss an antihistamine for more than a couple of days.

  • Persistent Runny Nose – If I don’t take an antihistamine every two days, my nose runs uncontrollably, especially in the winter months when symptoms intensify.

  • Itching & Allergy-Related Eczema – Even my esophagus feels itchy if I skip antihistamines for more than a couple of days. I start itching within 48 hours without them.

  • Allergy-Induced Asthma

  • Urticaria Dermographism – Constant hives, though the intensity has decreased, I still rely on antihistamines to manage it.

Background

My allergy issues started after I spent four days on a friend’s dusty bed a couple of years ago. Prior to that, I’ve always had some degree of acid reflux since I was 19, which would come and go. I did take a PPI for about two weeks at one point.

In mid-2016, my GERD symptoms worsened. I was diagnosed with a hiatus hernia, but recent endoscopy results showed that diagnosis was incorrect. Since then, I’ve been on a 40mg dose of Esomeprazole, but I started tapering off in preparation for the endoscopy. Now, I don’t want to go back on the PPI.

The question is, what’s the solution? I’m still waiting on biopsy results to confirm if it’s Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EE), which could explain some of these symptoms.

Interestingly, H2 blockers like Ranitidine are prescribed for both acid reflux and hives, suggesting a potential connection between the two. Additionally, PPIs like Esomeprazole have been shown to help manage EE in some patients.

But the big question is: Can we find a solution that doesn’t involve steroids? Steroids seem like an extreme option. Let’s set aside any fear or anxiety around health—if you’re experiencing similar symptoms, please try not to use language that might cause unnecessary distress for others reading this.

I’m planning to get allergy testing done, and I’m hoping to pursue immunotherapy to target the root cause of my allergies. With immunotherapy, I feel like I’ll finally be addressing the issue in a more permanent way, rather than just masking the symptoms with temporary solutions.

2

I just wanted to let you know that the allergy shots I’m taking can take some time to start working, and the response can vary from person to person. As I mentioned, I’ve been getting them, but so far I haven’t experienced consistent relief.

3

From my perspective, allergy shots seem like a long-term solution—think years—so it’s best to start as soon as possible. They should help improve overall symptoms over time. I haven’t looked into whether they offer a full cure, but I’d consider 80% effectiveness a solid outcome.

One important thing I’ve learned: If you feel itchy, resist the urge to scratch. Surprisingly, not scratching helps your body calm its allergic response. You can get away with a few quick scratches at first, but overall, holding off really makes a difference.

4

It sounds like you’re dealing with a complex set of symptoms that may involve both GERD and allergies, which can often overlap. The link between your acid reflux and antihistamine use is interesting, and you’re right to explore the potential role of Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EE) if your biopsy results suggest it.

Avoiding steroids is understandable, and immunotherapy could offer long-term relief by addressing the root causes of your allergies. In the meantime, consider dietary changes to reduce inflammation, explore H2 blockers as an alternative to PPIs, and continue working with both an allergist and gastroenterologist to manage both your allergy and reflux symptoms.

It’s great that you’re taking a proactive approach. Best of luck with your tests and treatment plan! Let us know how it goes.