Feeling tired? Maybe even a little forgetful?
Some of the symptoms of allergic rhinitis (or hay fever) go unnoticed rather than the more painful ones, such as eye and throat irritation or a runny nose. Although you might think that the “fuzzy” feeling associated with sleep deprivation and allergy medications is temporary, it can actually have long-term effects. Believe it or not, the results of rhinitis can lead to cognitive decline. Simply put, your allergies can affect your learning abilities.
Most people find that when their allergies are acting up, they have a harder time concentrating or remembering things. Rhinitis and the medications used to treat it are associated with other concerns, such as:
- Decreased ability to concentrate and function.
- activity limitation
- Decreased decision-making ability.
- Hand-eye coordination impairment
- Trouble remembering things.
- Irritability
- asleep
- Tired
- Missed days at work or school
- More car accidents
- More school or work injuries
These are problems that are often overlooked because nose blowing, throat scratching, and itchy eyes demand the most immediate action. But repeated nights of interrupted sleep due to allergies can slowly wear him down over time and numb his mental edge. Adding to the confusion, over-the-counter allergy medications often contain cheaper ingredients than prescription medications, and the result is a condition even more confusing than that caused by allergies alone.
For children, allergies often constitute a kind of learning disability, and atopic (allergic) diseases have often been shown to be confused with attention deficit disorder or other behavioral problems. Constant bouts of sneezing and nose blowing can break a child’s concentration, which in turn slows down the rate at which information is absorbed. Clogged Eustachian tubes (ear canals) can make hearing difficult, which has been shown to interfere with learning. In general, statistics show that children with allergies miss more days of school than their non-allergic peers.
What can you do to avoid rhinitis haze?
- When rhinitis becomes a chronic health problem throughout the year, it may be time to consider seeing a doctor who specializes in allergic diseases.
- Read the back of over-the-counter medications: If the warnings are for drowsiness, then you should try to avoid taking that particular medication. Nasalcrom® (cromolyn) is a non-sedating nasal spray that is effective in treating rhinitis.
- Non-drowsy antihistamines can make a big difference in allergies, but be aware of the effect they have on your body. Some people find that they are too nervous or that they still feel tired.
- Try to avoid the source of allergens by using an air purifier. Pollen particles can be removed from the air, and the results are often spectacular. One filter that is especially effective is one made by Dynamic Air Cleaners. Dynamic manufactures freestanding single room consoles as well as whole house filters to replace your existing furnace or central air filter.