Topic of the Week
Graves Inappropriate Histamine Response
Graves Inappropriate Histamine Response
*** Repost to cover several pending posts.
There’s a little known and often ignored Graves symptom that’s not related to your thyroid since it is antibody driven. Graves Inappropriate Histamine Response (GIHR) can manifest differently in each Gravester, even at different times. It’s an antibody driven symptom so achieving antibody remission is the best defense but that may not resolve it completely. Remission is not cured. It hasn’t completely resolved for me and many others but it’s much improved since reaching full antibody remission.
Antihistamines help and are safe to use. There’s an older antihistamine called Hydroxyzine (US) that also has anti anxiety properties if you’re having anxiety as well. It’s a great non-addictive option. Your GP can Rx it. Over the counter antihistamines work as well. I use Benadryl (diphenhydramine) at night since I don’t have the anxiety issues anymore.
GIHR can manifest in numerous different ways:
Overproduction of mucus or phlegm in the sinuses and throat. If you frequently cough from a tickle in your throat, this is likely GIHR. The tickle comes from drainage going down the back of your throat. It’s important not to swallow or allow this drainage into your lungs as it can cause stomach upset and pneumonia respectively.
Food sensitivities. Certain foods may trigger the overproduction of mucus when eaten. Luckily, we can still eat these foods is this is not the same as an anaphylactic reaction which is dangerous. Just be prepared to need to blow your nose and cough to prevent the excess mucus from getting into your lungs or digestive tract.
Skin reactions and rashes. These are usually itchy and take a long time to heal. Steroid and cortisone creams help. Note: this is NOT the same as the rash that can accompany starting anti thyroid meds. This rash that usually occurs in the first few weeks of taking ATD but not the first dose or two is caused by the dose being too high. Completely different.
Suddenly being unable to take medications you’ve previously taken just fine due to the onset of a rash. We can suddenly develop a reaction to things like antibiotics, Rx meds, etc. that we’ve never had before.
The good news is Graves Inappropriate Histamine Response symptoms/reactions can disappear as suddenly as they occur. Eating corn may trigger a reaction but then a year later you’ll have no reaction whatsoever to eating corn. Crazy, huh?!?
Are you having GIHR? Then, please consider working with me to get your thyroid levels optimal and your antibodies declining down on the way to remission. That’s what will help the most in the long run.
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