About Allergies: Does Tylenol Cause Asthma?

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Allergies Allergies Symptoms / Diagnosis Treatment Coping From Daniel More, MD, your Guide to Allergies Tylenol (acetaminophen) is an over-the-counter pain reliever and fever-reducer that is commonly used for children. The use of acetaminophen has increased dramatically over the past 50 years -- over the same time allergic diseases, such as asthma, have also become more common. Could there be an association between the use of acetaminophen and asthma? A recent study sought to determine the risk of asthma in teenagers using acetaminophen, and found that the development of asthma and eczema was 2.5 times more likely in those taking acetaminophen at least once a month. There was also a significant increase in the risk of developing nasal and eye allergies. Acetaminophen may cause an increase in inflammation, and ultimately allergic diseases, by reducing the amount of antioxidant enzymes in the body. Does this mean that you shouldn't take acetaminophen? The answer isn't completely clear, and more studies are needed, to see if there is truly an association between acetaminophen use and the development of allergies. Tylenol and Asthma Children who had received acetaminophen for fever during the first year of life were found to have an increased risk of asthma at 6 to 7 years of age. These children also had higher rates of allergic rhinitis and eczema... Why Allergies are Becoming More Common No one knows for sure. There are various theories why this might be, with the "hygiene hypothesis" representing the most popular reason. The "hygiene hypothesis" refers to the fact that in our clean, modern society, our immune systems no longer have to fight off multiple infections during childhood... Prevention of Allergies and Asthma in Children The ultimate goal of allergy treatment is preventing the symptoms from occurring in the first place. This usually includes learning how to avoid the allergen, whether it be pets, foods, insects or even certain chemicals. Preventing the development of allergies, asthma and food allergies in young children also is possible... Allergies Ads Skin Allergies Food Allergy Allergy Treatment Peanut Allergies Bed Allergies Featured Articles Alternative Therapies in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Allergies Glossary of Terms Information on the Most Common Allergy Medications Allergy Basics Frequently Asked Questions Nose and Eye Allergies   More from About.com Plan a Unique Vegas Wedding The minister, music and champagne are just the beginning -- why not get married aboard a helicopter or have a pirate swing in to deliver your rings? Arrrr! More> Join About.com's User Panel! Share your opinions and help us make About.com more relevant, informative and enjoyable to use. More> This newsletter is written by: Daniel More, MD Allergies Guide Email Me | My Blog | My Forum   Sign up for more free newsletters on your favorite topics You are receiving this newsletter because you subscribed to the About Allergies newsletter. If you wish to change your email address or unsubscribe, please click here. About respects your privacy: Our Privacy Policy Contact Information: 249 West 17th Street New York, NY, 10011 © 2010 About.com   Must Reads What are Allergies? Symptoms of Allergies Diagnosis of Allergies Treatment of Allergies Preventing Allergies Advertisement