Allergies are a common condition that affects millions of people all over the world.
They
occur when the body’s immune system reacts to a substance that
considers harmful, even if in reality it is not harmful to most people.
The
substance that triggers an allergic reaction is called an allergen and
can be found in a number of sources, including pollen, dust mites, pet
dander and some foods.
One of the most common symptoms of allergies is inflammation of the nose, throat and eyes.
This inflammation can cause a variety of symptoms including sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and congestion.
While these symptoms can be annoying and uncomfortable, they don’t usually cause a fever.
However, in rare cases, allergies can cause fever along with other symptoms.
For example, some people may develop a fever after being exposed to certain allergens, such as mold or insect bites.
This fever is usually delicate and disappears alone in a few days.
In
some cases, a more serious allergic reaction called anaphylaxis can
also cause fever together with other symptoms such as hive, breathing
difficulties and rapid beats.
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Let’s take a closer look at how allergies can cause a fever and what you should do if you experience this symptom.
How allergies work
To understand how allergies can cause a fever, it helps to understand how the immune system works.
The immune system is the body’s defense mechanism against harmful substances such as viruses and bacteria.
When the immune system detects a foreign substance (an antigen), it produces antibodies that recognize and attack the antigen.
In most people, the immune system doesn’t react to harmless substances like pollen or pet dander.
However,
in people with allergies, the immune system mistakes these harmless
substances for dangerous invaders and mounts an immune response.
This
immune response causes inflammation in the affected areas, leading to
allergy symptoms such as a runny nose, sneezing and itchy eyes.
While these symptoms can be uncomfortable, they don’t usually cause a fever.
In
fact, body temperature may drop slightly during an allergic reaction
due to the release of histamine, a chemical that causes blood vessels to
dilate and lower blood pressure.
Allergic reactions and fevers
While allergies don’t usually cause a fever, some types of allergic reactions can trigger a fever.
For
example, if you are allergic to mold and are exposed to large numbers
of mold spores, you may develop a fever along with other symptoms such
as coughing, congestion and wheezing.
Similarly, if you are allergic to insect venom and are bitten by large numbers of insects, you may also develop a fever.
These fevers are usually mild and go away on their own in a few days.
They are caused by the immune system’s response to the allergen, which triggers the release of chemicals called cytokines.
Cytokines
are involved in the body’s inflammatory response and can cause fever
along with other symptoms such as fatigue, muscle aches, and headache.
In rare cases, a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis can also cause a fever.
Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency that can be life-threatening if not treated right away.
It is usually triggered by exposure to an allergen such as peanuts, shellfish or bee venom.
Symptoms of anaphylaxis include
Shortness of breath
Swelling of the lips, tongue or throat
Fast or weak pulse
Dizziness or fainting
Hives or rash
Nausea or vomiting
Fever
If
you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of anaphylaxis, it’s
important to seek emergency medical attention right away.
Allergies
can be a chronic and uncomfortable condition, but fortunately, there
are several treatments available that can help control allergy symptoms.
The
best treatment for allergies depends on the type and severity of the
allergy, as well as the individual’s medical history and lifestyle.
Here are some common allergy treatments
Avoiding Allergens: The most effective way to control allergies is to avoid the allergens that trigger them.
For
example, if you are allergic to pollen, you can stay indoors on days
when pollen counts are high, keep doors and windows closed, and use an
air purifier to filter pollen from the air.
Similarly,
if you are allergic to pet dander, you can avoid contact with pets or
at least limit contact to certain areas of the house.
Medications: Medications are often used to relieve allergy symptoms.
There are several types of medications available over the counter or by prescription, including:
Antihistamines: These drugs block the release of histamine, a chemical responsible for many allergy symptoms.
Antihistamines
can be taken by mouth or as a nasal spray and are effective in treating
symptoms such as sneezing, itching and a runny nose.
Decongestants: These medications relieve nasal congestion by narrowing blood vessels in the nasal passages.
Decongestants
can be taken by mouth or as a nasal spray and are effective in treating
symptoms such as nasal congestion and sinus pressure.
Nasal
corticosteroids: These medications reduce inflammation in the nasal
passages and are effective in treating symptoms such as nasal
congestion, runny nose, and sneezing.
Leukotriene
modifiers: These drugs block the action of leukotrienes, chemicals that
contribute to airway inflammation. Leukotriene modifiers are used to
treat asthma and allergic rhinitis.
Immunotherapy:
Immunotherapy involves exposing the body to gradually increasing
amounts of an allergen over time, in order to build immunity to the
allergen.
Immunotherapy can be given as allergy shots or sublingual tablets.
Alternative treatments
Some people with allergies turn to alternative treatments such as acupuncture, herbal remedies or homeopathy.
While
these treatments may bring relief to some people, there is little
scientific evidence to support their effectiveness in treating
allergies.
Emergency treatment
In rare cases, allergies can cause a serious, life-threatening reaction called anaphylaxis.
Anaphylaxis
requires immediate emergency treatment, including injection of
epinephrine (adrenaline) and other medications to open the airways and
restore blood pressure.
It is important to note that while allergy treatments may help control symptoms, they may not provide an allergy cure.
Some people may need to continue taking medications or receive immunotherapy for years to control their allergies.
It’s also important to work closely with a healthcare professional to develop a safe and effective treatment plan for you.
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