Can Allergies Cause Fever?

Allergies are widespread issues that afflict billions of individuals. For example, many individuals sneeze, experience watery eyes, and struggle with congestion. These symptoms occur because of various allergens such as pollen, dust, or dander. These symptoms cause irritation and discomfort. One of the most frequently asked questions is whether allergies can cause a fever. The short answer would be no. Allergies, or even seasonal allergies such as hay fever, typically do not increase body temperature.

Fever is generally a symptom of infection and not an allergy. However, in extremely rare situations, inflammation can lead to sinus infections, where slight fevers can manifest. However, remembering the distinction between allergies and infections is important so that they can be treated accordingly.

What Are Allergies?

An allergy occurs when the immune system overreacts to something benign – such as pollen, dust, certain food items, pet dander, and lots more. The immune system misidentifies these allergens as toxic, thereby triggering the body’s defense mechanism to activate, which leads to symptoms like:

• Sneezing
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Itchy eyes, nose, or throat
• Coughing
• Skin rashes

Can Allergies Cause Fever?

Mild and moderate-grade fevers can sometimes be related to other allergy problems, while the allergy itself cannot directly cause a fever. A fever stems from the body’s attempt to overcome an infection. Yet, as explained above, some other allergy-related complications can cause low-grade fevers.

How Allergies May Lead to Fever

Sneezing, runny noses, and itchy eyes are some of the discomforts an allergy can cause. Again, we emphasize the fact that an allergy does not directly cause a fever. A fever is usually an outcome of some form of an infection and not an allergic response. This being said, there exist some instances where allergies can indirectly create fever-inducing conditions::

• Allergic Sinusitis – Allergies to certain items can lead to inflammation in the nasal cavities which causes nasal congestion. If this congestion leads to mucus retention, it creates the perfect conditions for bacteria to thrive within, giving rise to a bacterial sinus infection. This will cause pressure on the facial unit leading to headaches, thick nasal discharge, and mild fever.
• Otitis Media— Some allergies may also start due to inflammation of the outer ear canal and sometimes, the allergic response to the tissue of the skin can be deeper and infectious. These skin changes can result in ear pain, pressure, and at times fever.
• Post-Nasal Drip— Excessive dripping of mucus from the nose down the throat can lead to throat irritation causing either coughing or in some people, a bacterial infection. If there is a throat infection, it is quite common to experience a mild fever.

How to Manage Allergy Symptoms

Different allergies have different symptoms, but they can worsen if not managed properly. This could result in more serious conditions, such as sinus or ear infections. Here’s a brief overview of things you can do to feel better physically.

• Avoid Triggers—Common triggers such as pollen, dust, mold, and animal fur should be avoided as much as possible. Pet hair should always be cleaned, and windows should be closed as much as possible in high pollen seasons.
• Use Allergy Medicine—Over-the-counter medicine like antihistamines can help treat sneezing, nasal irritation, or dripping noses. Decongestants can also relieve swelling within the nose.
• Try Nasal Sprays – Corticosteroid nasal and saline sprays can relieve sinus swelling and blockage.
• Keep Your Home Clean—Regularly vacuuming and dusting your space will vastly help relieve allergies. Bedding in hot water can neutralize dust mites.
• Use an Air Purifier—A quality air purifier equipped with a HEPA filter will drastically improve indoor air quality by removing allergens.
• Drink Plenty of Water—Drinking a lot of water thins out mucus in the nose and makes it easy to clear. This is a significant way to relieve post-nasal drizzle.

When to See a Doctor

Home remedies are beneficial for managing allergies, but sometimes medical help is needed. Consult a doctor when you:

• Have a fever above 100.4 °F (38°C)
• Feel extremely weak, exhausted, or have body pains
• Have breathing difficulties and wheezing
• Suffer from chronic sinus pain, pressure, or facial edema
• Are experiencing ear pain and otorrhea

Taking the necessary steps to manage allergies and seeking medical care will minimize the chances of developing complications and experiencing faster recovery.

Conclusion

Allergies do not directly result in fever, but infections caused by allergies can cause mild fevers. If you have a fever, it is probably caused by a cold or the flu. Controlling and managing your allergies might help lessen complications. If your symptoms worsen, kindly consult with a allergist.

For expert allergy care, DMV Allergy & Asthma Center has the solution. We test and treat every kind of allergy. Our team attends to all patients trying to manage allergy-associated discomforts. We apply new therapeutic techniques for the control of asthma and allergic reactions. DMV Allergy answers your questions about whether you or a loved one has allergy problems.

Common FAQs about Allergies and Fever

1. Do allergies make you feel sick?

Allergies can make you feel sick by causing fatigue, headaches, congestion, and sometimes nausea. Unlike infections, allergies do not cause fevers or body aches, so in a way, they are less severe.

2. How do I determine the difference between colds and allergies?

While a cold may accompany a fever or sore throat, painful body aches, and thick, occasionally yellow mucus are also expected when a person has a cold. On the other hand, sneezing, itching of the eyes, and a clear fluid runny nose are more common symptoms of allergies.

3. What should I do if allergies result in sinus infections?

If your allergies are causing sinus problems, try using saline spray and taking antihistamines. Drinking more water will also help relieve allergy-related symptoms. If congestion worsens and you start to feel pain along with fever, it’s best to see a doctor for further treatment.