How to recognize if your allergies are out of control
How to recognize if your allergies are out of control
In spring it’s the trees, in the summer it’s grass, in fall it’s ragweed, and in winter the dust gives you fits. Can you ever find relief from your allergies? From a runny nose to itchy eyes to fatigue, allergies are no fun to live with day in and day out. Maybe your allergies are mild enough that an occasional antihistamine does the trick or perhaps you’ve been dealing with allergy symptoms for months now without finding relief.
Not sure whether your allergy symptoms are normal? Here are the top signs they are out of control.
Constant Congestion
After a week or two of a runny nose and congestion, you should realize that you don’t have a cold, but that something else is going on. Since then you’ve been struggling to find the best treatment for your allergies. Exposure to allergens causes inflammation and excess mucous in your nasal passages, hence the constant nose blowing, headaches, and sinus pressure.
Itchy Nose
You try to avoid your allergy triggers as best you can, but your nose is still itchy all the time. If you’re not blowing your nose or on the verge of sneezing, then you’re rubbing your nose to relieve the constant itch. Sound familiar? Then you’re well acquainted with allergies.
Watery Eyes
Someone with bad allergies can often be singled out of a crowd based on the appearance of their eyes. Allergies can cause itchy, watery eyes. Frequent rubbing of your eyes and the fatigue caused by allergies can cause dark circles to appear under your eyes. Regardless, the constantly watery eyes are enough to make you want to cry!
Wheezing
Many people with asthma suffer from frequent wheezing, but wheezing can also accompany allergies. As you breath in and out a whistling sound can be heard. Due to narrowed airways, wheezing is something that requires medical attention.
For many people, allergies and asthma go hand in hand. Allergies worsen asthma symptoms. Wheezing, coughing, tightness in your chest, and shortness of breath may be signs of asthma. See an allergist to be tested if your breathing issues persist.
Low on Energy
It’s springtime, the flowers are blooming, and the sun is shining, so why do you feel so dragged out all the time? Allergies are likely to blame. When exposure to allergens such as pollen, dust, or pet dander mistakenly triggers an immune system response, it’s common for you to feel low on energy. As if that weren’t enough, congestion, sneezing, and a runny nose keep you from getting a good night’s rest, making you feel even more dragged out. Decide to take some medication to help? Then you’re getting hit a third time, as many antihistamine medications cause drowsiness.
Skin Conditions
An allergic response can also affect the skin. An itchy, dry rash that won’t seem to go away may be eczema. Hives are another type of allergic reaction. Causing red welts that may itch, hives may last hours or days. Chronic eczema rashes or frequent hives are a sign you need to see a doctor.
Depression
Include allergies in the long list of possible contributing factors for depression. The link is unclear, but seasonal allergies may actually affect more than your nose, eyes, and skin. They may also negatively impact your mood. Stuck indoors, a lack of energy, poor sleep, and feeling crummy may all be to blame. Anyone experiencing unexplainable feelings of sadness and hopelessness should make an appointment to see a medical expert.
