Seasonal allergies, also known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis, are commonly associated with sneezing, nasal congestion, and itchy eyes. However, some people also experience unexpected symptoms like dizziness or lightheadedness. If you’ve ever felt off-balance or woozy during allergy season, you may wonder if your allergies are to blame. The short answer is yes– seasonal allergies can contribute to lightheadedness in several ways. Continue reading to learn more!
For same-day seasonal allergy relief, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Elizabeth. Our medical team can evaluate your symptoms, diagnose your condition, and plan the best treatment possible. Just walk-in or plan your visit in advance below!
How Seasonal Allergies Can Cause Lightheadedness
Lightheadedness from allergies is often caused by a combination of factors, including sinus pressure, inflammation, dehydration, and even the body’s immune system response. Here are the main ways allergies can make you feel dizzy or unsteady.
1. Sinus Congestion and Inner Ear Pressure
Your sinuses and inner ear are closely connected. When allergies cause nasal congestion, the Eustachian tubes (which help regulate pressure in your ears) can become blocked. This imbalance can lead to a sensation of dizziness or vertigo, pressure in the ears, and trouble maintaining balance.
2. Dehydration and Allergy Medications
Many people with seasonal allergies take antihistamines or decongestants to manage symptoms. However, some of these medications can cause drowsiness and dizziness. Additionally, decongestants can have a stimulating effect, potentially leading to jitteriness or lightheadedness.
Allergy sufferers may also experience mild dehydration if they are not drinking enough fluids, especially when taking antihistamines, which can have a drying effect. Dehydration itself can cause dizziness or a feeling or being lightheaded.
3. Inflammation and Reduced Oxygen Intake
Allergic reactions trigger inflammation in the nasal passages, making it harder to breathe through your nose. In some cases, reduced airflow can decrease oxygen intake slightly, leading to a lightheaded feeling.
4. Immune System Response and Fatigue
When your body reacts to allergens, it releases histamines, which trigger inflammation and other allergy symptoms. This immune response can also contribute to fatigue, making you feel weak or lightheaded, especially if symptoms are persistent.
How To Reduce Lightheadedness From Allergies
If seasonal allergies are making you feel lightheaded, there are several steps you can take to alleviate the symptoms, including:
- Manage Nasal Congestion: Use saline rinses, nasal sprays, or steam inhalation to keep your nasal passages clear and reduce sinus pressure.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to counteract dehydration and the drying effects or allergy medications.
- Non-Drowsy Antihistamines: If medications are causing dizziness, opt for newer medications which have fewer side effects.
- Limit Exposure to Allergens: Keep windows closed during peak pollen seasons, use an air purifier, and wash bedding frequently to reduce allergen buildup.
- Rest: If you feel lightheaded, sit or lie down until the sensation passes. Avoid quick head movements which can make dizziness worse.
While lightheadedness caused by allergies is usually harmless, it’s important to seek medical attention if your symptoms persist or worsen. Urgent care centers can help determine whether your symptoms are allergy-related or due to another underlying condition, such as an inner ear infection, low blood pressure, or dehydration.
Get Walk-In Allergy Symptom Relief at AFC Urgent Care Elizabeth
Seasonal allergies can cause more than just sneezing and congestion– they can also lead to lightheadedness due to sinus pressure, inflammation, dehydration, or medication side effects. While most cases of allergy-related dizziness are not serious, it’s important to manage symptoms effectively and seek medical care if they persist. Need allergy relief? Come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Elizabeth. Our urgent care center is open 365 days a year, seven days a week, and always accepts walk-in patients. Don’t ignore your symptoms! We accept most health insurance plans and offer low-cost options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about seasonal allergy treatment, or other services we provide, please contact us directly at 908-677-5900.
