March away from Allergy March

Allergic March, also known as atopic march, describes the natural progression of allergic diseases, often starting with eczema in infancy and potentially progressing to food allergies, hay fever, and asthma later in childhood, writes Dr Sahil Gupta.

Dr Sahil Gupta

Allergy March, also known as ‘atopic march’, refers to the progressive development of various allergic conditions that typically begin in infancy and evolve into more complex forms over time. It has emerged as a growing global health concern, affecting millions of individuals and placing increasing pressure on healthcare systems. The sequence often starts with atopic dermatitis (commonly known as eczema) in early childhood, followed by food allergies, and later progresses to respiratory conditions such as hay fever and asthma. This well-documented progression is influenced by factors including family history, genetic predisposition, immune hypersensitivity, and a variety of environmental triggers. A thorough understanding of Allergy March is crucial for reducing its health burden and improving the quality of life for those affected.

The progression of Allergy March

In individuals with Allergy March, the immune system reacts abnormally to harmless substances, triggering a cascade of allergic responses. This hypersensitivity often begins with inflammatory skin conditions like eczema, marked by redness, irritation, and intense itching. Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is commonly seen in infants and young children and is frequently the first sign of an overactive immune system. Children who develop eczema are at a higher risk of progressing to food allergies, which may include reactions to common allergens such as cow’s milk, peanuts, shellfish, and eggs. A compromised skin barrier in eczema makes it easier for allergens to enter the body, increasing susceptibility to additional allergic conditions. Recent research indicates that the earlier a child develops eczema, the more likely they are to experience the full progression of Allergy March.

Food allergies: A
critical stage

The next stage in Allergy March often involves food allergies, which can range in severity from mild itching and hives to life-threatening anaphylactic reactions. These occur when the immune system mistakenly identifies certain food proteins as dangerous, prompting a strong defensive response. As food allergies rise globally, they have become a major health concern requiring increased awareness and immediate medical intervention. Alarmingly, many children with food allergies eventually go on to develop respiratory allergies, highlighting the need for early management.

Respiratory allergies

As children grow older, those affected by Allergy March may develop respiratory allergies, most commonly allergic rhinitis (hay fever). Symptoms include nasal congestion, sneezing, a runny nose, and itchy or watery eyes, typically triggered by airborne allergens such as pollen, pet dander, dust mites, and mould spores. Allergic rhinitis can significantly impair daily functioning, including sleep, concentration, and overall quality of life. In more severe cases, chronic respiratory inflammation may lead to asthma, one of the most serious consequences of Allergy March. Asthma is a chronic condition characterised by airway inflammation, wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath, often requiring long-term medication and lifestyle adjustments.

Rising prevalence & environmental impact

The prevalence of allergic diseases, including asthma, continues to increase worldwide. Contributing factors include urbanisation, air pollution, climate change, reduced microbial exposure, and dietary changes. Exposure to fine particulate matter and other pollutants weakens respiratory defences and exacerbates allergic symptoms. Meanwhile, the rising intake of processed foods and additives is linked to immune system dysregulation. The “hygiene hypothesis” suggests that reduced exposure to microbes in early childhood, due to improved sanitation, fewer infections, and excessive cleanliness, may impair immune development, increasing susceptibility to allergic diseases.

Psychological impact of Allergy March

Beyond physical symptoms, the progression of Allergy March can also have a significant psychological impact, leading to stress, anxiety, and depression. Social interactions may be limited due to dietary restrictions or the need to avoid outdoor allergens. Additionally, stigma and isolation can further affect mental well-being, especially among children and adolescents.

Addressing the challenges of Allergy March

Managing Allergy March effectively requires a comprehensive, multi-pronged approach involving healthcare professionals, public health organisations, researchers, and caregivers.

Early detection and intervention are key to altering the course of the condition and minimising long-term effects. Identifying children at high risk based on family history and early signs allows for the introduction of preventive strategies. For example, breastfeeding has been shown to strengthen infants’ immune systems and lower the risk of allergic diseases.

Moreover, introducing allergenic foods early in a child’s diet, rather than delaying exposure, may reduce the development of food allergies. The Learning Early About Peanut Allergy (LEAP) trial is a prominent study demonstrating that early introduction of peanuts significantly lowers allergy risk.

Treatment strategies for Allergy March

A variety of treatment options exist to manage Allergy March. Immunotherapy, including allergy shots or sublingual tablets, gradually desensitises the immune system to allergens, increasing tolerance and reducing the severity of reactions. This approach has shown long-term benefits in reducing the impact of allergic diseases. In addition to conventional treatments, traditional practices such as Ayurveda offer alternative approaches to managing allergies. Ayurveda focuses on addressing the root causes by restoring balance within the body through detoxification, herbal formulations, and lifestyle modifications, aiming for long-term relief rather than symptomatic suppression.

The path forward

As allergic diseases continue to rise worldwide, understanding the progression and impact of Allergy March is more important than ever. A proactive, integrated approach that includes early diagnosis, preventive care, and diverse treatment options — including traditional systems like Ayurveda — can improve outcomes and reduce the overall burden on individuals and healthcare systems. Ultimately, combating allergies requires collective action — from healthcare professionals, researchers, and policymakers to communities and individuals — to create a more informed, resilient, and allergy-aware world.

(The author is an Ayurvedic allergy specialist.)