Why Your Allergies Are Making Your Joints and Muscles Sore…

There’s no two ways about it, having allergies is no fun. When we think of allergies, most of us think about red eyes and sneezing as common symptoms but allergies can also cause pain, soreness and fatigue in our joints and muscles as well. Given the fluctuating temperatures and late start to spring in many areas this year, allergy season may be a bit delayed but make no mistake, there’s no escaping allergy season. Here’s what you need to know about allergies and their impact on our joints and muscles:

• JOINT PAIN: Joint pain in an allergy symptom that is mentions less often, but it’s certainly one that can occur. This is because allergies result in an increase in inflammation in the body as it tries to fight off a perceived threat. Usually this results in typical allergy symptoms (red eyes, sore throat, an itchy nose, etc.) but it can also lead to inflammation in the joints, causing pain. Other allergies, such as food allergies, can also lead to joint pain. Remember that joint pain can also be a symptom of a cold, so if your pain is accompanied by a sore throat, stuffy nose, a cough or a fever, it’s likely due to a cold rather than allergies.
• BODY ACHES: In general, fevers and overall body aches are not symptoms of allergies. If you are experiencing such aches, they’re likely caused by a common cold.
• TIREDNESS: Allergies can lead to tiredness and overall fatigue. There are a number of reasons for this, but one of the most common is that dealing with allergies is exhausting. It can be very tough to get enough sleep when you’re having trouble breathing due to a stuffed up nose. A persistent headache or sore eyes or throat will make it tough to concentrate, which can also lead to feelings of fatigue. Fighting off allergies is very tiring for your body, so you’ll likely feel tired or lacking in energy if you are dealing with allergies.
• WHAT YOU CAN DO: The good news is that, unlike the common cold, there are effective treatments available for allergies. The most common are antihistamines. These are widely available under a number of brand names, both in over-the-counter form and with a prescription. Antihistamines work by blocking histamine reactions to allergens, which reduces allergy symptoms. This can help eliminate symptoms such as joint pain as well as make it easier to sleep at night, reducing tiredness and fatigue. Antihistamines are available in a number of different forms, including tablets, capsules, nasal sprays, liquids and eye drops. There are side effects to antihistamines which can include drowsiness, dry mouth, dizziness and other symptoms. Another possible allergy solution is a decongestant. These drugs are typically used to alleviate sinus congestion, such as a stuffed up nose or swollen nose. They are available in pills, liquids, nasal sprays and drops. Finally, there are also various naturopathic solutions that can also help with controlling symptoms naturally.

If you’d like to learn more about allergies and possible naturopathic solutions for controlling symptoms, please don’t hesitate to give us a call. Remember, at Physiomed…Healthier Starts Here.