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Can Severe Allergies Cause Fever

When To See A Doctor

Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever & Seasonal Allergies) Signs & Symptoms (& Why They Occur)

If your fever is above 104°F , contact a doctor immediately. If you have flu symptoms that last more than 10 days or if your symptoms arent improving with OTC medications, you should contact a doctor.

You should also see a doctor if your fever is causing:

  • High body heat with no sweat
  • Involuntary shivering or shaking

What Are The Treatments For Allergic Rhinitis

The first and best option is to avoid contact with substances that trigger your nasal allergies . When prevention is not enough, consider using over-the-counter or prescription medicines:

  • Antihistamines are taken by mouth or as a nasal spray. They can relieve sneezing and itching in the nose and eyes. They also reduce a runny nose and, to a lesser extent, nasal stuffiness.
  • are taken by mouth or as a nasal spray or drops. They help shrink the lining of the nasal passages which relieves nasal stuffiness. These nose drops and sprays should be taken short-term.
  • Nasal corticosteroids are used in nasal spray form. They reduce inflammation in the nose and block allergic reactions. They are the most effective medicine type for allergic rhinitis because they can reduce all symptoms, including nasal congestion. Nasal corticosteroids have few side effects.
  • Leukotriene receptor antagonists block the action of important chemical messengers other than histamine that are involved in allergic reactions.
  • Cromolyn sodium is a nasal spray that blocks the release of chemicals that cause allergy symptoms, including histamine and leukotrienes. This medicine has few side effects, but you must take it four times a day.

Nasal allergy symptoms may disappear completely when the allergen is removed or after the allergy is treated. Talk to your pharmacist and health care provider about what is best for you.

Can A Cold Or Flu Cause Allergies

An allergy is an inflammatory immune response to specific foods or something in the environment, known as an allergen. Colds and flu are caused by viruses or bacteria. Therefore, a cold or flu cannot cause an allergy.

Sometimes, allergies can lead to a sinus infection, which may develop into a fever. Sinus infections are the result of excess mucus and debris getting trapped in the air-filled sinus passages. However, the infection develops due to the bacteria or viruses present rather than the allergens.

Knowing what a person is allergic to can help in treating the allergies. A person can be allergic to several allergens at once. Some of the key steps to reducing allergy symptoms include:

A person with severe allergies may benefit from immunotherapy. This approach involves injecting increasing amounts of allergens in the body to de-sensitize the bodys immune response. A doctor must prescribe these injections.

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The Difference Between Allergies & Colds:

When you have a bacterial or viral infection, your body will trigger an immune response. Chemicals called pyrogens, which are produced by white blood cells, cause the temperature in the body to rise. This is a normal inflammatory response that helps to kill off heat-sensitive bacteria.

Allergens, on the other hand, set off no such reaction. During an allergic reaction, your body releases histamines, which make you sneeze and cough. Histamines are only released during allergic reactions, which is why you shouldnt take anti-histamine medication for the common cold or flu.

Can Allergies Cause Fatigue & A Low Grade Fever

What do I do against hay fever?

Whether it is spring or fall, if you suffer from allergies, you run the risk of becoming sick. For some sufferers, allergies cause nasal congestion, headache and cough 1. For others, if their bodies react strongly enough, their symptoms may include a low-grade fever and fatigue. It is important to know how to treat your symptoms so you begin feeling healthy again.

If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, seek emergency treatment immediately.

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Spring Is Here 5 Things Allergy Sufferers Need To Know

Due to global climate changes, allergists warn that spring allergy season continues to worsen each year. Dr. Jigisha Morosky, an allergist/immunologist with Starling Physicians, addresses the most common questions about seasonal allergies.

How do you know if it is a cold, allergy or COVID?

Sometimes it is difficult for people to determine if sniffles, sneezes, sore throat and coughs are caused by allergies, a cold or even sinusitis. Dr. Morosky explains that nasal allergy symptoms and common cold symptoms are essentially identical. Variables we examine are exposure to an allergen, like pollen or a pet, the duration of symptoms months versus 1 to 2 weeks, and if there is improvement while taking allergy medications.

Spring allergies can cause itchy water eyes, runny nose, scratchy throat, sneezing, coughing and even hives. The symptoms of a cold are often characterized by runny nose, sore throat and cough. Patients with severe seasonal allergies can feel very fatigued and have low grade fever making the distinction even harder.

Acute sinusitis is characterized by a stuffy or runny nose accompanied by pain in the forehead and/or over the cheeks. Often both the common cold and allergies can cause swelling of the nasal passages, which prevent the sinuses from draining, then this can lead to sinusitis. Sinusitis can be treated with antibiotics, however it often recurs if due to uncontrolled allergies.

What are best over the counter methods to treat allergies?

Some Of The Most Common Symptoms Of Allergy

Most of the times, the symptoms of a food allergy depends on the allergen. If you are allergic to a certain food or even dust, the body reacts with the so-called allergen and produces a chemical known as histamine. Let us now Understand Some of the Common Symptoms of Food Allergies.

Some of the food allergies can also show symptoms like nausea or diarrhea or some individuals might also experience skin rashes or slight swelling in the joints.

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Are You Sure Those Are Allergies

Even if you do not have a fever, make sure to take good care of yourself. Allergies, if left untreated, can cause severe sinus infections and even asthma. Dont try to self-medicate or ignore your symptoms. Because this can likely end up doing more harm than good. So, watch out for bad breath, colored mucus, or any chills. Speak with your physician about the proper treatment plans.

The Effect Of The Weather

Experts say cedar fever season is back and may cause allergies for some

The amount of sunshine, rain or wind affects how much pollen plants release and how much it’s spread around. On humid and windy days, pollen spreads easily. On rainy days, pollen may be cleared from the air, causing pollen levels to fall.

During their pollen season, plants release pollen early in the morning. As the day gets warmer and more flowers open, pollen levels rise. On sunny days, the pollen count is highest in the early evening.

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Complications Of Hay Fever

Hay fever can lead to complications such as sinusitis and middle ear infections . It can also have a significant impact on your daily activities.

In one study, a third of adults with hay fever reported that their symptoms had a considerable negative impact on their work, home and social life.

Children’s symptoms can disrupt their schooling and lead to delays in learning and development. Unfortunately, the peak of the grass pollen season coincides with the annual GCSE examinations.

In most cases, the negative impact can be reduced with treatment. However, see your GP if you’re concerned that hay fever is becoming an increasing problem in your life.

You should also make extra efforts to limit exposure to pollen. Read more about preventing hay fever.

Are You Suffering From Allergies Call Us Today To Schedule An Appointment

The immune system is vital for fighting off diseases. Any microorganism that enters your body activates your immune system to fight it off. White blood cells are the cells responsible for keeping your body free from diseases. When the cells are low in number, your immune system is inadequate in fighting off microorganisms, making you susceptible to infections. Therefore, a strong immune system is important for the prevention and fighting off of diseases. A strong immune system is generally achieved by proper diet and exercise. Some foods known to boost your immune system that you should incorporate into your diet include garlic, spinach, broccoli, almonds, citrus fruits, et cetera.

In some people, the immune system may be too weak to fight off diseases. This is seen in people with chronic diseases like cancer, diabetes, and HIV/AIDs. This is why people living with HIV/AIDs, for example, are susceptible to bacterial infections like tuberculosis and fungal infections like candidiasis. In addition to the immune system being inadequate to fight off diseases, it can be hyperactive.

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Suggestions To Reduce Symptoms

To prevent or limit symptoms of hay fever, minimise exposure to known allergens.

House dust mite minimisation:

  • Wash sheets, pillow cases and other bedding weekly in hot water.
  • Cover mattress, pillow and quilt with dust mite resistant covers.
  • Remove sheepskins or woollen underlays from the bed and bedroom.
  • Remove soft toys from the bedroom.

Pet dander minimisation:

  • Ensure pets are kept out of bedrooms.
  • Keep pets outside.

Can I Prevent Allergy Symptoms

How to Cope With Chronic Rhinitis

If youre suffering from allergy symptoms you can try to limit your exposure to the allergens whenever possible. Some suggestions include:

  • Stay away from cigarette smoke and pets
  • If you have seasonal allergies, you can also keep your windows closed during the peak months when your symptoms flare-up
  • If you do go outside, wear a mask to protect yourself
  • Delegate allergy triggers such as mowing the grass
  • Keep your home or office as clean as possible if you know dust mites are a problem
  • If you have food allergies, avoid those foods
  • Use over-the-counter allergy medications to help control your symptoms
  • Use air conditioning in the car or home
  • Use a dehumidifier to keep the indoor air dry in your house
  • Select a high-efficiency filter for your HVAC unit and follow recommended maintenance to care for these units
  • Clean your home with a vacuum that has a HEPA filter

There are all kinds of over-the-counter medications that you can try. They could potentially help for a time. Nonprescription medications could include:

  • Antihistamines or decongestants
  • Nasal sprays
  • Saline or nasal irrigation

However, you cant always avoid or limit your exposure to the things that cause your allergies, such as pollen, pet dander, or mold. Over-the-counter medications may not alleviate your symptoms. Fortunately, your doctor can help with medications to alleviate your symptoms.

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Can Allergies Cause A Cough

Allergies can also cause you to cough. They can make the back of your throat tickle and cause sinus drainage that makes you very uncomfortable. These allergy symptoms can range from mildly uncomfortable to severe. Patients with asthma may experience wheezing or shortness of breath along with a cough. A cough called by allergies is not contagious but it can certainly be annoying.

Patients with allergies often develop a chronic dry cough that lasts for weeks. You may experience a cough at different times of the year if you have hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis). Hay fever can cause you to sneeze, have itchy skin, watery eyes, and cough. The congestion you experience during seasonal allergies can also cause dark circles under your eyes.

A cough caused by allergies is much different from a cough caused by an infection. Asthma, whether its chronic or triggered by allergens, can also cause a cough.

However, if you experience a fever, dry cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, or other symptoms, its time to see your doctor.

Fever And Allergies Symptoms

The most common sign that you have an allergy is that it is short-lived and persists only as long as you are exposed to the allergen. If your symptoms persist, it may be that you have the flu or the common cold since they typically last longer.

However, itchy and watery eyes, which are common in allergies, are not signs of the flu or a cold.

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Questions To Ask Your Doctor

  • Could anything else, such as a cold or the flu, be causing my symptoms?
  • How do I figure out what Im allergic to?
  • Is my allergy seasonal?
  • I am allergic to _____. Am I at risk for any other allergies?
  • What changes can I make at home to relieve my symptoms?
  • Will any over-the counter medicines relieve my symptoms?
  • What should I do if my symptoms get worse or dont respond to the treatment youve prescribed?
  • Do I need to see an allergy specialist ?

How To Tell If Your Symptoms Are Due To Allergies

Pollen Allergies, Hay Fever & IAQ

You may need to consult a doctor to determine the cause of your fever. A doctor will ask you questions and do a physical exam to understand symptoms and onset. Other tests can include a blood test, a stool or urine test, a throat swab, a mucus sample, or an x-ray.

If you suspect your symptoms are due to an allergy, you should make an appointment with a doctor. Your doctor may recommend consulting an allergist, someone who can test for and diagnose specific allergies.

Diagnosing an allergy requires several steps. These may include:

  • A detailed personal medical history. This can help your allergist find a connection between your symptoms and potential exposure to the allergen.
  • Keeping a log. By noting when your symptoms appear, intensify, or disappear, your allergist can start to determine potential allergens and seasons that trigger symptoms.
  • Allergy testing. Usually, allergists use a skin prick test to test for multiple allergens at one time. Your skins reaction to particular allergens will help determine what youre allergic to. Other common types of allergy tests include intradermal, skin patch, and blood tests.
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    How To Treat Allergies

    In some cases, the best way to manage allergic reactions is to completely avoid the allergen triggering substance. But when the allergen is impossible to avoid, or allergic reactions are getting in the way of your life, our doctors offer solutions that will help you manage them.

    Allergy shots help desensitize your body to allergens by exposing your body to a small amount of the allergen, slowly increasing the amount over time. Our doctors develop a treatment course to your triggering allergens, starting with weekly shots and moving to monthly over time.

    Other allergy treatments our doctors prescribe include medication, inhalers, and sublingual immunotherapy tablets, a tablet form of allergy shots. For certain life-threatening allergies, our doctors prescribe an epinephrine auto-injector for you to carry with you in case of exposure to the allergen.

    When To See A Medical Provider

    Seasonal allergies are common, but they dont cause fevers.

    If you have a fever along with allergy symptoms, you dont necessarily need medical care right away.

    But if your symptoms dont improve or they worsen, see a doctor. You could have a viral or bacterial infection.

    Also, if you experience any of the following, seek emergency medical care:

    • Fever greater than 103º F
    • Dizziness
    • Yellowing of the skin

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    Check If You Have Hay Fever

    Symptoms of hay fever include:

    • sneezing and coughing
    • a runny or blocked nose
    • itchy, red or watery eyes
    • itchy throat, mouth, nose and ears
    • loss of smell
    • pain around your temples and forehead
    • headache

    If you have asthma, you might also:

    • have a tight feeling in your chest
    • be short of breath
    • wheeze and cough

    Hay fever will last for weeks or months, unlike a cold, which usually goes away after 1 to 2 weeks.

    Living With Allergic Rhinitis

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    Living with the symptoms of allergic rhinitis can affect your daily life. Nasal symptoms can be worse when lying down. This can disturb your ability to sleep well. Fatigue and headaches can affect your ability to function at school and work. There are many medicines and treatments that can help you manage your symptoms. Talk to your doctor as soon as you feel that your symptoms are getting worse or are not easy to control. He or she can help you come up with the right plan to control them so they dont affect your ability to live your normal life.

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    How To Treat Hay Fever

    If our doctors diagnose you with hay fever, theyll develop an individualized treatment plan based on the severity of your symptoms, allergen triggers, and medical needs. Like other allergies, in some cases, you can manage hay fever by avoiding contact with the allergen.

    Other treatments our doctors offer for hay fever include antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, decongestant medications, allergy shots, and eye drops. Your treatment might include a combination of these interventions.

    Whether you have allergies, hay fever, or both, its possible to thrive with the right treatment. With two convenient offices in Manchester and Middletown, our specialized doctors treat patients throughout Connecticut.

    To schedule your consultation, please request an appointment online, or call your preferred practice location.

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    How Can Allergy Symptoms Be Treated By A Doctor

    Allergists, like Dr. Kevin Farnam, MD, are medical doctors who specialize in the treatment of allergies and asthma. These specially trained clinicians can treat your stubborn allergy symptoms by first, diagnosing, and then prescribing medications that can help.

    Many mild allergy cases can be treated without seeing a doctor. When allergies interfere with your day-to-day activities, you can take back control of your life by seeing an allergist.

    An allergist can treat all kinds of allergy problems including:

    • Allergic rhinitis or hay fever is a reaction that occurs primarily from environmental allergens
    • Anaphylaxis is rare and a potentially fatal allergic reaction caused by triggers such as food, a medication, or an insect sting
    • Asthma is an allergy symptom that causes muscle spasms in a persons breathing airway that blocks air to the lungs
    • Atopic or contact dermatitis are allergies that cause hives or dermatitis on the skin

    Visiting an allergist could include:

    • A complete history and physical exam
    • Allergy testing to see what is causing your symptoms
    • Education to help prevent allergies by avoiding them
    • Medication to treat symptoms
    • Allergy shots to alleviate symptoms

    You should see an allergist if your allergies are causing chronic sinus infections, difficulty breathing, or the discomfort of sneezing, wheezing, or other symptoms that disrupt your life.

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