Teenagers seem to be on the go all the time, with school, extracurricular activities, part-time jobs and busy social lives. Many teens also suffer from allergies, which can strike at just about any time of year. If your teenager seems extra tired lately, you may wonder if it's just due to his hectic schedule or allergies might be the cause.
Allergy Symptoms
Symptoms of allergies include itchy, burning and watery eyes, sneezing, runny nose, sore throat, hives and fatigue. Teens with allergies also may develop "allergic shiners," dark circles under the eyes. Not all teenagers experience the same symptoms; one may sneeze and have a runny nose, while another feels more tired than usual and has watery, itchy eyes. Any combination of these symptoms can indicate that your teenager has allergies, especially during a time that there are a lot of allergens, such as pollen, in the air.
Other Causes of Teenagers Being Tired
If your teenager doesn't have allergies, what's causing her to be tired all the time? Many teenagers stay up late. This isn't necessarily because teens don't want to go to bed early. Teenagers' brains are hard-wired to keep them awake longer than when they were younger, so even though they have to get up early for school, they can't fall asleep before 11 p.m. or so. Stress also can make your teenager tired. Dealing with school and social pressures can be exhausting. Some illnesses, such as the flu, also can cause teenagers to feel more tired than usual.
How to Combat Allergies
Staying indoors when the air is full of allergens, such as ragweed, can cut down on your teenager's symptoms, but that's not always possible. A nasal wash that clears allergens out of the nose is one option that can help. Over-the-counter antihistamines may help alleviate tiredness and other symptoms of allergies. If your teenager's allergies are severe, his doctor may prescribe medication to keep them at bay.
Helping Your Teenager Feel Less Tired
Since going to sleep earlier and sleeping late isn't always possible, encourage your teenager to create an environment in her room that's conducive to sleep. Have her sleep with the television and radio off. A fan or white noise machine can help block out noise. Offer healthy meal and snack choices so your teenager doesn't experience plummeting blood sugar, which can make her feel tired. Talk to her about not overscheduling so she isn't constantly on the go. If her exhaustion persists and seems excessive, visit the doctor to rule out illness as a cause.
