IRRITABILITY, ANGER, CRANKINESS

What May Be Causing It?
Allergies go beyond nose, eyes, ears, and throat, and have systemic (whole-body) symptoms. The histamine and chemical mediators that are released in the allergy system have effects on the rest of the body, brain, and central nervous system. Symptoms can include fatigue, body aches, sleep disruption, decreased productivity at work, headache, and other symptoms. You may feel like you have the flu. Surveys show well over half of allergy patients say their allergies leave them miserable, irritable, and tired.

How Can I Get Some Relief?
Try over-the-counter allergy medicines—and start early. (Don\'t wait until you\'re feeling really miserable; nip it in the bud, when the symptoms are smaller and more manageable.)

Do I Need to See a Doctor?
Yes, if you don\'t improve after 5 to 7 days on over-the-counter medicines. There are other things your doctor can do at that point, and you should not have to suffer in silence.

Our Allergy Expert