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How TSLP Gene Variants Affect Hay Fever and What You Can Do

Hay fever, also called allergic rhinitis, happens when the immune system overreacts to everyday substances like pollen, pet dander, or mold. The TSLP gene helps control this reaction by producing thymic stromal lymphopoietin, a protein that signals immune cells and can amplify allergic inflammation. Small differences in the TSLP gene can change how strongly the immune system responds to these triggers, and that may influence the severity of sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and other common symptoms.

Why this matters

  • TSLP is an immune messenger involved early in the allergic response.
  • Different versions of the TSLP gene can make allergic reactions stronger or milder.
  • Your genotype at rs1837253 is one genetic factor among many that contributes to allergy risk.

Practical steps to manage hay fever

Genetics can inform risk but lifestyle and environment shape how symptoms appear. Below are actionable ways to reduce symptoms and support immune balance.

Reduce exposure to triggers

  • Keep windows closed on high pollen days and use air conditioning with clean filters.
  • Shower and change clothes after outdoor activities to remove pollen.
  • Use HEPA filters in bedrooms and vacuum frequently with a HEPA-equipped cleaner.
  • Wash bedding weekly in hot water and reduce indoor humidity to limit mold.

Diet and nutrition

  • Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables for antioxidants and fiber.
  • Include sources of omega 3 fatty acids such as fatty fish, walnuts, or flax for anti inflammatory support.
  • Limit highly processed foods and added sugars that can promote inflammation.
  • Stay well hydrated to maintain healthy mucous membranes.

Supplements to consider

Discuss supplements with your healthcare provider before starting them. Consider these options to support immune balance and mucosal health.

  • Vitamin D if you are deficient, since it supports immune regulation.
  • Probiotics to promote a healthy microbiome which can influence immune responses.
  • Quercetin and bromelain are sometimes used to support nasal comfort, but evidence varies.
  • Omega 3 supplements when dietary intake is low.

Lifestyle and stress

  • Manage stress with meditation, sleep, or gentle exercise as stress can worsen allergies.
  • Aim for regular sleep to support immune function.
  • Regular moderate exercise can reduce inflammation and improve overall resilience.

Medical and testing considerations

  • Consider allergy testing with your healthcare provider to identify specific triggers and guide avoidance strategies.
  • Blood tests for Vitamin D and general inflammatory markers may be useful if symptoms are severe or chronic.
  • If symptoms interfere with daily life, discuss medical treatments such as antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, or allergy immunotherapy with a clinician.

Genetic Interpretation: rs1837253 in TSLP

2 effect alleles (TT)

You have the TT genotype at rs1837253, meaning you carry two copies of the effect allele. This version of TSLP is associated with a possibly more protective immune response to common allergens. The TSLP protein helps activate immune cells involved in allergic inflammation. With the TT genotype your immune signaling at this site may be better regulated when exposed to pollen, pet dander, or mold.

What this may mean for you

  • Potentially milder hay fever symptoms compared to some other genotypes.
  • Lower likelihood of an exaggerated immune response to harmless environmental particles.
  • Still be mindful that many other genes and environmental factors influence allergy risk.

Recommendations to maintain respiratory and immune health

  • Continue trigger avoidance and environmental controls.
  • Maintain a nutrient rich diet, adequate Vitamin D, and consider probiotics if appropriate.
  • Monitor symptoms and consult your healthcare provider if seasonal changes cause trouble.
1 effect allele (CT)

You have the CT genotype at rs1837253, meaning you carry one copy of the effect allele. This genotype is associated with a moderately protective immune response to allergens. TSLP acts as a messenger that primes immune cells to respond to allergens like pollen and pet dander. With one effect allele your immune response may be somewhat better regulated than with no effect alleles.

What this may mean for you

  • Possibly milder or intermediate hay fever symptoms compared to people with two non effect alleles.
  • A reduced tendency to overreact to harmless environmental particles, although responses can vary.
  • Environmental factors and other genes will continue to influence overall allergy risk.

Recommendations to support symptom control

  • Implement environmental measures such as HEPA filtration and bedding hygiene.
  • Support immune balance with a nutrient dense diet and consider omega 3s and probiotics.
  • Track symptom patterns and work with your provider on targeted treatments if needed.
0 effect alleles (CC)

You have the CC genotype at rs1837253, meaning you carry two copies of the non effect allele. This indicates you do not carry the T variant at this site that has been associated with altered immune responses. Your TSLP gene at this location suggests a typical baseline immune response pattern.

What this may mean for you

  • Your allergy risk at this single genetic location is average, but overall risk depends on many other genetic and environmental factors.
  • Symptoms, if present, are more likely driven by exposures, other genetic variants, or immune history.

Recommendations to reduce symptoms and support control

  • Prioritize trigger reduction, air quality, and bedding cleanliness.
  • Use dietary and lifestyle strategies to minimize inflammation and support immune function.
  • Consider allergy testing and discuss medical treatments with a healthcare provider if symptoms persist.

Final notes and important disclaimer

This information is educational and describes how variants in the TSLP gene at rs1837253 are associated with differences in allergic response. Genetics are one piece of a larger picture that includes environment, immune history, and lifestyle. PlexusDx does not provide medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to diet, supplements, or medical care. If you have severe or worsening symptoms seek medical attention promptly.