Allergies can strike at any time of the year and can cause unpleasant symptoms that make it difficult to sleep. Allergy sufferers can often experience drowsiness while they undergo treatment; however, allergies themselves don’t necessarily cause sleepiness. Morning drowsiness is most likely attributed to the types of medications you take for your allergy symptoms. Ongoing sleepiness warrants switching medications, as recommended by your doctor. Persistent fatigue may be indicative of another health problem.
Symptoms
Pollen sensitivities are among the most common types of allergies. In fact, the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of American estimates that up to 20 percent of people in the United States suffer from hay fever symptoms related to pollen allergy. Related symptoms include itchy nose, sneezing, persistent runny nose, and irritated eyes and throat. Many of these symptoms can make it difficult to sleep at night, which is one reason why some patients wake up feeling drowsy in the morning.
Over-the-Counter Medications
When you experience an allergic reaction, your body releases histamine, a chemical that can cause allergy symptoms. In an effort to prevent the onset of symptoms, many allergy patients take antihistamine medications on a daily basis. Antihistamines are widely available in drug stores for patients to prevent certain symptoms of allergies. The American Academy of Family Physicians says that over-the-counter antihistamines can cause drowsiness, as well as other symptoms such as blurred vision and dry mouth. Taking the medicine at night can make you feel drowsy upon waking up.
Prescription Drugs
Patients that experience drowsiness from their antihistamine medications might consider switching over to a prescription version. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, prescription antihistamines pose less of a risk of drowsiness and other side effects, compared to over-the-counter versions. This is especially helpful if you experience drowsiness related to your medicine and if you have to drive or operate machinery. Prescription nasal sprays are also less likely to cause side effects.
Considerations
Drowsiness from an allergy medication can be addressed with your doctor, who can either prescribe or recommend a different form of treatment. This condition can be worsened if you mix medications without asking a medical professional first. Persistent fatigue may indicate another underlying health condition, such as a thyroid problem, anemia and depression. Medline Plus says the difference between drowsiness and fatigue is that the latter takes your energy and motivation, while the former just makes you sleepy. Check with your physician if you suspect excessive fatigue so that he can make a proper diagnosis.
Member Comments