All About Allergy Fatigue

When we think about our allergy symptoms we typically think of the "normal" symptoms - Runny nose, cough, itchy eyes. Allergy fatigue is the lurking symptom that we seem to forget about or not realize, even though it takes a big toll on our bodies. Individuals with allergies are 76% more likely to feel unrested during the day.

So what is allergy fatigue?

• Allergy fatigue is a common symptom of allergies, consisting of persistent tiredness or a general lazy feeling. This allergy symptom can be caused by a biochemically based fatigue that can also alter your sleep quality.
    
•  It can be difficult to figure out whether allergy fatigue is directly from allergies or just life in general. To distinguish this allergy symptom, allergic reactions can release chemicals in your body that cause fatigue. So if you're already feeling the common allergy symptoms with the addition of tiredness, it is most likely allergy fatigue. It is important to recognize the difference between normal tiredness and allergy fatigue because coffee or energy drinks will not treat allergy fatigue.
    
• Your quality of sleep is extremely important, especially during allergy season. Because your immune system is working overtime and your body is not repairing and resting at night due to allergies, the body cannot function at full capacity, resulting in intense fatigue.

How do allergies cause extreme fatigue?

Allergies can cause extreme fatigue in multiple ways. It not only affects nighttime sleep and disrupts sleep, but also can induce daytime fatigue as allergies can wear down the immune system over time.

The allergens upset the immune system. When we are experiencing allergy symptoms our immune system is constantly working to keep releasing chemicals to help make us feel better. This constant running of the immune system can leave your body feeling overworked, weakened, and exhausted.

While allergies can cause fatigue, they can also cause brain fog. Allergic sinusitis affects the amount of oxygen being taken in from your nose due to blockage and congestion. This lower oxygen level in the body can decrease daytime mental efficiency as well as cognitive function. This results in "brain fog". Some of us might think that it is a placebo effect due to the state of feeling unwell, but it is actually a side effect that can occur with allergic or chronic sinusitis.

What does allergy fatigue feel like?

It can feel like extreme drowsiness, not even depending on the amount of sleep you get. There can also be other symptoms such as brain fog, leaving people feeling hazy, tired, and unable to focus on anything. Many experienced brain fog from COVID-19 as well. If you are unsure if you are feeling symptoms of allergies or COVID, watch this video.

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Symptoms that can disrupt sleep include:

• Congestion
• Coughing
• Itchy eyes
• Sneezing
• Skin itching
• Runny nose
• Throat clearing
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What kind of allergies cause fatigue?

Allergy fatigue can be caused by both seasonal and year-round allergies making it a severe symptom of allergies.

How do you fight and prevent allergy fatigue?

Not all who experience allergies have the same triggers. This is why it is important to get allergy tested to know what you're reacting to and to try and avoid it. By avoiding or treating the allergen fatigue and other symptoms can be reduced.

• You can fight allergy fatigue by learning your triggers. You can do this by taking an allergy test to fully understand what allergies are causing issues and get to the source of the problem.

• Take an antihistamine before your daytime allergies begin.

• Avoid over-the-counter medications like Benadryl which are known to be particularly drowsy.

• Check your local pollen count. It may be best to stay indoors during this time.

• Use a neti pot as these are known to reduce congestion. By being congested and being able to breathe properly. Waking up in the middle of the night due to congestion and coughing results in sleep disruption and lack of sleep.

• Wash sheets frequently in hot water to get rid of allergens. Dust mite and pet allergies are typically worse in the home and bed. Get rid of these irritants for a better night's sleep.

• Keep your head elevated when you sleep. This can keep excess mucus from building up, reducing congestion and resulting In better sleep.

Allergy Fatigue Treatment

Short Term Treatment:

• Non-Drowsy Medication. Anything that will help fight allergies. If you are facing allergy fatigue your body cannot continue to fight off the allergens without the help of an antihistamine.
  
  

Long Term Treatment: Immunotherapy

• Allergy Drops - (Sublingual Immunotherapy) Allergy drops are placed under the tongue 3 times a day. These are super convenient because they can be done on the go and on your own schedule. They are also equally effective as allergy shots! The usual length of treatment is between three to five years.

• Allergy Shots - Allergy shots are performed by injecting the allergen into the body usually on a weekly or monthly basis. These are administered in the office, as there is a potential for an allergic reaction. The length of treatment is also around three to five years. 

• ExACT Immunoplasty - Find relief with just three shots! Our ExACT treatment is quick and simple, and clinical studies have shown this treatment to be just as effective as three years of allergy shots! 

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Allergy fatigue can be an intense symptom and can really affect your life, including your mood and allergy levels. This can also affect mental health and should be taken seriously. These can affect the body and the brain leaving your body feeling worn down. Don't just deal with your allergies, request an appointment today and find real relief.