- Allergies can cause tiredness, which is often referred to as "allergy fatigue."
- Allergy fatigue happens because your body reacts to allergens, which makes you feel tired. Symptoms like a stuffy nose and some allergy medicines can also make you sleepy.
- Find out what you're allergic to and avoid those things as much as possible. Try simple lifestyle changes or using Allermi's nasal spray to feel better.
Tiredness can result from many things, like not getting enough sleep, stress, or doing too much. If you're also sneezing, have itchy eyes, or a runny nose, your tiredness might be because of allergy symptoms.
In this article, we'll explain how allergies can make you feel drained. We'll also share some tips to help you feel better and get your energy back!
Can Allergies Make You Feel Tired?
Yes, allergies can make you feel tired, and this is often referred to as "allergy fatigue." It is characterized by a persistent feeling of tiredness that is not relieved by rest. This is caused by the body's inflammatory response to allergens like dust mites, pet dander, or mold.
When your body comes into contact with allergens, it releases a substance called histamine. This causes symptoms like a stuffy nose or sneezing, which can make it harder to sleep. Poor sleep then makes you feel extra tired during the day, adding to the fatigue caused by allergies.
Research shows that poor sleep and fatigue are the main reasons why people with allergies often say their quality of life isn’t as good. The constant discomfort from symptoms and lack of rest can make it harder to enjoy daily activities and feel their best [*].
Moreover, medications, especially first-generation antihistamines, can also cause drowsiness. Taking them can make you feel even more tired [*]. As a result, you're likely to feel drained, even after a full night’s sleep.
Allergy Fatigue Symptoms
In addition to constant tiredness, allergy fatigue can come with other symptoms that make daily life even harder. These may include:
- Tiredness: Allergy symptoms like a stuffy nose and sneezing, along with constant inflammation in the body, can make it hard to sleep. This leaves you feeling tired, even after a full night’s rest.
- Brain fog: Breathing issues caused by allergies reduce oxygen intake, which can affect brain function. When you can't get enough oxygen, it can cause symptoms like trouble thinking clearly and focusing.
- Sleep apnea: Allergies cause inflammation and nasal congestion, which can block airways. These blockages can cause sleep apnea by interrupting breathing during sleep [*].
- Immune system changes: Constant exposure to allergens keeps the immune system working overtime. This weakens its ability to fight off other infections, making you more prone to illness.
How to Fix Allergy Fatigue
If you’re dealing with allergy fatigue, there are several steps you can take to alleviate your symptoms and regain your energy. Follow these steps:
- Identify your allergen: The first step in managing allergy fatigue is finding out what triggers your allergies. Get tested by an allergist to pinpoint specific allergens like pollen, dust, mold, or pet dander. Knowing your triggers lets you take action to better control your symptoms.
- Reduce exposure to allergens: Once you know your allergens, it's important to limit your exposure. Regular cleaning of your home helps remove dust, pollen, and pet dander. Use HEPA filters in your air system and vacuum to capture small allergens. If you have pets, grooming and bathing them regularly can cut down on the dander in your environment.
- Medications: Allergy medications such as antihistamines, nasal sprays, and decongestants can help reduce allergy symptoms. Antihistamines stop itching,, nasal sprays ease inflammation and congestion, and decongestants clear blocked nasal passages. You can also try a combination nasal spray, like Allermi, which has multiple ingredients for full or nearly full symptom relief. Talk to your doctor to find the best option, especially if some medications make you sleepy.
- Lifestyle changes: Making small lifestyle changes can greatly improve allergy fatigue. Drinking plenty of water helps thin mucus and ease congestion. Regular exercise boosts circulation and reduces inflammation. Practicing good sleep hygiene improves your sleep quality, so you get the rest you need.
- Allergy shots: Allergy shots, or immunotherapy, can provide long-term relief for some allergy sufferers. These shots work by gradually desensitizing your immune system to allergens. This reduces the severity of your symptoms over time. It may take months to see results, but allergy shots can offer lasting relief from allergy fatigue.
The Bottom Line
Allergy fatigue can make daily life harder, but with the right steps, you can start feeling better. Learn your triggers, reduce your exposure to allergens, and make some lifestyle changes.
Medications, such as Allermi's combination nasal spray, can also be a good option if you’re looking for continuous relief, whether you're dealing with allergies in the short term or managing them long term. Be sure to consult your doctor to find the best treatment plan for your needs.
References:
- Tamm, S., Cervenka, S., Forsberg, A., Estelius, J., Grunewald, J., Gyllfors, P., Karshikoff, B., Kosek, E., Lampa, J., Lensmar, C., Strand, V., Åkerstedt, T., Halldin, C., Ingvar, M., Olgart Höglund, C., & Lekander, M. (2018). Evidence of fatigue, disordered sleep and peripheral inflammation, but not increased brain TSPO expression, in seasonal allergy: A [11C]PBR28 PET study. Brain, Behavior, and Immunity, 68, 146-157. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bbi.2017.10.013
- Church, M. K., & Church, D. S. (2013). Pharmacology of Antihistamines. Indian Journal of Dermatology, 58(3), 219. https://doi.org/10.4103/0019-5154.110832
- The linkage of allergic rhinitis and obstructive sleep apnea. (2014, December 1). PubMed. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25543037/
