Can a 32-year-old male with pancreatitis have allergies?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 32-year-old male with chronic idiopathic pancreatitis. I regularly take pancreatic enzyme supplements three times a day and nutritional supplements three times a day.

I have been experiencing cold and cough symptoms for approximately two years, almost four to five days a week. My nose gets blocked in the morning, even when sleeping under a fan, and I now feel uncomfortable around dust. I had a total IgE test, and the report showed a high IgE value. Please diagnose and suggest a treatment.

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

We are happy to help you.

I understand that you have had these complaints for a few years. It is most likely a manifestation of allergic rhinitis. The total IgE (immunoglobulin E) level in your serum indicates allergy status at the time of the blood sample but is not very significant in allergy practice. Nonetheless, it shows that you have an allergy. You will need medications to manage the allergies and prevent blockages and colds. Additionally, you need to identify the specific allergen causing the problems. The best way to diagnose this is by getting a skin prick test done at a reputable allergy diagnostic lab.

In the meantime, you could benefit from a combination of an antihistamine with a leukotriene inhibitor, a steroid nasal spray, and allergen avoidance. You will need to use these for about two to three months. Avoiding allergens is the most effective solution.

Could you provide more details about your symptoms so we can guide you better?
Is the problem seasonal or perennial?
Does it only occur at night when you lie down under the fan or at any time of the day?
Does it worsen in winter or when you visit a hill station?
Where do you live?
Do you smoke?
What is your diet like?
Are you exposed to vehicular exhaust, pollution, or dust?
Have you tried nasal sprays before?
Is your cough wet or dry?
Do you experience any breathing difficulty or wheezing?
Has there been any change in your voice?

Looking forward to your response in order to help you.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

You need to stop smoking completely. Smoking affects the sinonasal and respiratory mucosa, leading to poor mucociliary clearance and worsening your allergy problem.

I suggest avoiding direct exposure to fans or air conditioners. Set the air conditioner to an optimum temperature of 75.2 to 78.8 degrees Fahrenheit and use a mild blower speed. If needed, set the fan to a low speed with the air conditioner. Do not lie directly under the air conditioner. Avoid inhaling vehicular dust, smoke, and polluted air. Consider doing breathing exercises and yoga.

Maintain a healthy diet and avoid excessive consumption of milk. You will need Montelukast 10 mg and Levocetirizine 5 mg for a few weeks. Additionally, start using Fluticasone furoate nasal spray. Be sure to read the pamphlet on how to use the spray properly. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to me.

Let me know if there is anything else I can clarify or help with. Practice social distancing and take good care of yourself.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.

Answer 3

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Please explain the complaints in detail, including the duration, any worsening, and relief. What exactly are the complaints?

Looking forward to your response in order to help you.

Thank you.