Can Allergies Cause Body Aches?

Allergies are a common health concern that affects millions of people worldwide, and usually manifest through a variety of well-known symptoms such as sneezing, itchy eyes, and runny nose. However, allergic reactions can also present in ways that are not always immediately recognized as being allergy-related.

If you’re an allergy sufferer, you could be wondering if the aches and pains you feel are linked to your allergies. Here, we’ll discuss whether allergies may be associated with body aches, symptoms you might notice, diagnosis, and treatment.

Can Allergies Cause Body Aches?

While not a common allergy symptom, allergies may indirectly be linked to body aches by triggering an immune response that releases inflammatory signals, which can potentially lead to muscle and joint discomfort.

How Can Allergies Be Associated with Body Aches?

Allergies may be associated with body aches through the immune system's response to allergens. When allergens enter the body of someone with allergies, the immune system overreacts and releases histamine and other chemicals that cause an inflammatory response.

This inflammatory response can affect muscles and joints, which may lead to symptoms of body aches and discomfort [*]. Additionally, the immune activation and systemic response to allergens can lead to feelings of fatigue and malaise, which may worsen the sensation of body aches.

In some cases, allergies can worsen existing pain and stiffness in the joints and muscles of individuals with arthritis. This occurs because the release of inflammatory signals can lead to more discomfort in the already inflamed joints.

Are There Specific Allergies More Likely to Cause Body Aches?

Seasonal allergies, such as those triggered by pollen, can cause inflammation in the sinuses and airways, which may lead to headaches, sinus pressure, and muscle aches around the face and neck.

However, keep in mind that individual responses to allergens can vary, and not everyone with allergies will experience body aches as a symptom.

Common Body Ache Symptoms Associated with Allergies

Body aches associated with allergies typically include:

• Headaches. Sinus congestion and inflammation from allergies, such as seasonal allergies, can contribute to headaches and facial pain.
• Muscle aches. Allergic reactions may lead to the release of inflammatory chemicals like histamines, which can cause muscle soreness and stiffness.
• Joint pain. Inflammation triggered by allergies may also affect joints, leading to discomfort and pain, especially in individuals with underlying joint conditions or sensitivities.
• Generalized fatigue. Allergies can cause systemic inflammation and immune activation, leading to a feeling of overall fatigue and body discomfort.

In addition to muscle aches, joint pain, headaches, and fatigue, other allergy-related body ache symptoms can include:

• Throat irritation. Allergic reactions involving the throat, such as allergic rhinitis can lead to throat irritation and discomfort, which may extend to the neck and shoulders.
• Skin sensations. Allergic skin reactions, such as hives (urticaria) or eczema flare-ups, can cause itching, burning, or tenderness, contributing to a sense of bodily discomfort.

How Long Do Body Aches from Allergies Last?

Generally speaking, mild allergic reactions that lead to body aches may last from a few hours to a day. If the allergen exposure continues or if the allergic response is severe, body aches may persist longer.

How Can Body Aches Be Diagnosed?

Body aches can be diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination to assess for signs of inflammation or tenderness.

The presence of other allergic symptoms like nasal congestion, sneeze, runny nose or allergic skin reactions helps establish a possible connection between allergen exposure and body aches.

How are Body Aches Treated?

Body aches from allergies are typically managed alleviating associated symptoms. Treatment options may include:

• Pain medications. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help alleviate muscle and joint pain caused by allergic inflammation. They work by blocking the production of prostaglandins not only in the brain but also at the site of inflammation throughout the body.
• Allergen avoidance. Identifying and avoiding allergens. This may involve lifestyle changes to reduce exposure to pollen, pet dander, dust mites, or foods that you have been confirmed as allergic to [*].
• Immunotherapy. For severe or persistent allergies, allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots or sublingual tablets) may be recommended. This treatment gradually desensitizes the immune system to allergens, reducing the severity of allergic reactions over time.
• Lifestyle adjustments. Maintaining a clean indoor environment, using air purifiers, and practicing good hygiene (like washing hands frequently and showering after outdoor activities) can help minimize allergen exposure and reduce symptoms.

When to See a Doctor

Consult with a doctor for body aches if they are severe, persistent, or significantly impact your daily life despite over-the-counter treatments.

Additionally, if body aches are accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as fever, chills, difficulty breathing, swelling, or unexplained fatigue, it's important to seek medical attention promptly to determine the underlying cause and receive prompt treatment.

The Bottom Line

Body aches are not a common symptom of allergies, but they can occur as a result of the body's inflammatory response to allergens. Effective symptom management is key.

If you’re seeking targeted relief for nasal symptoms, Allermi nasal spray offers a promising solution. It combines up to four active ingredients, including an antihistamine and an anti-inflammatory, to tackle multiple allergy symptoms simultaneously.

References:

1. Chen, L., Deng, H., Cui, H., Fang, J., Zuo, Z., Deng, J., Li, Y., Wang, X., & Zhao, L. (2017). Inflammatory responses and inflammation-associated diseases in organs. Oncotarget, 9(6), 7204–7218. https://doi.org/10.18632/oncotarget.23208
2. Tomé, M., & Lourenço, O. (2023). Avoidance Measures for Patients with Allergic Rhinitis: A Scoping Review. Children, 10(2), 300. https://doi.org/10.3390/children10020300