If you’ve ever experienced sneezing, congestion, and fatigue during allergy season, you may have wondered whether allergies can cause flu-like symptoms. While allergies and the flu share some similarities, they have different causes and treatments. Understanding key differences can help you manage your symptoms effectively. In this blog, we’ll explore how allergies can mimic the flu and when it might be necessary to seek medical attention.
For same-day seasonal allergy treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Ken Caryl. Our urgent care center is open 7 days a week and provides the best care for all patients in the Littleton, CO area and surrounding communities. Simply walk-in or plan your visit in advance below!
Can Allergies Mimic The Flu?
Yes, seasonal allergies cause symptoms that resemble the flu, including:
- Nasal congestion
- Runny nose
- Sneezing
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Mild body aches
However, allergies do not cause fever, chills, or severe body aches, which are common flu symptoms. The main reason allergies can feel like the flu is that the immune system reacts to allergens– such as pollen, dust, or pet dander– by releasing histamines, which trigger inflammation and mucus production. This response can lead to fatigue and discomfort, making it feel like you’re coming down with an illness.
Why Do Allergies Cause Fatigue and Body Aches?
Although allergies do not directly cause the flu, they can make you feel run down in several ways:
- Inflammation: Your immune system is constantly reacting to allergens, leading to overall fatigue.
- Sinus Congestion: Blocked nasal passages can disrupt sleep and cause headaches, making you feel exhausted.
- Histamine Release: Histamines, which the body produces in response to allergens, can contribute to tiredness and body discomfort.
- Poor Sleep Quality: Allergy symptoms often worsen at night, making it more difficult to get a restful sleep.
How To Manage Allergy Symptoms
If allergies are making you feel sick, there are several remedies you can follow to find relief. Over-the-counter antihistamines help block the immune response to allergens and rescue symptoms. Saline nasal sprays can reduce congestion and inflammation. A HEPA filter can help remove allergens from indoor air. Keep windows closed during high pollen seasons and wash bedding frequently. Stay hydrated to thin mucus and relieve sinus pressure.
If your symptoms persist for more than a few weeks, worsen over time, or include a fever and severe body aches, it’s best to consult a healthcare provider. You may have an infection or another underlying condition that needs treatment.
Get Walk-In Seasonal Allergy Relief at AFC Urgent Care Ken Caryl
While allergies can cause flu-like symptoms such as congestion, fatigue, and mild body aches, they don’t cause fever or severe muscle pain like the flu does. If you are unsure whether you have allergies or an illness, paying attention to your symptoms and their duration can help you determine the cause and find the right treatment. If you have allergies, come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Ken Caryl. Our medical team is available 7 days a week to evaluate your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment. We accept most health insurance plans and offer low-cost options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about allergy treatment, or other symptoms we provide, just call us directly at (720) 818-8010.
