When you think of allergies, you probably think of symptoms such as itchy eyes, congestion, runny nose, sneezing and hives. But did you know that allergies can also cause symptoms such as body aches? We review the connection below.
What Causes Allergies?
To understand how allergies cause body aches, it’s important to know what causes allergy symptoms in the first place.
Your immune system works to protect your body from diseases, viruses and infections. But for people with allergies, the immune system mistakes harmless substances such as pollen, pet dander, dust mites, certain foods, mold and insect stings as dangerous intruders. An allergic reaction occurs when your body is exposed to one of these harmless substances, known as an allergen, and your immune system overreacts.
In order to fight off the intruder, your immune system releases antibodies called Immunoglobulin E (IgE), which causes your cells to produce histamine. Histamine increases mucus production and causes inflammation, which triggers your allergy symptoms.
How Do Allergies Cause Body Aches?
As stated above, your body’s response to allergens can cause inflammation. While sometimes this inflammation is realized as hives or swelling, it can cause pain in other cases. According to one study, “Some of the same chemicals that help fight off allergens also activate nerves in the body that causes pain in joints throughout your body.”
This pain can occur in several places throughout the body. Coughing and sneezing can strain the muscles between your ribs or the cartilage that attaches your ribs to your breastbone. You can also experience pain in your diaphragm, which can spread to your shoulders or neck.
How Can I Manage Pain Caused by Allergies?
You can manage body aches caused by allergies by:
- Taking allergy medications such as antihistamines.
- Taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications.
- Taking a warm bath.
- Using a heating pad from Delta Pharmacy & Medical Supply.
- Avoiding physical activity.
When Should I See a Doctor for My Pain?
You should see a doctor for your body aches if:
- They become intolerable
- They last more than a week
- They make it hard to move
- They’re accompanied by a fever
- They’re accompanied by shortness of breath
For more information or to schedule an appointment, call Charleston ENT & Allergy today.