Health Info > Allergies Published on : March 31, 2025

Can seasonal allergies make you feel sick?

Name: Hola Health
Address: Australia
Telephone: +611300014652
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Written by editorial staff writer at Hola. Medically reviewed by Dr Mark Mellor, FRACGP DCH MBChB BSc

Can seasonal allergies make you feel sick?

Seasonal allergies affect millions of people worldwide. The Australian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA) estimates that 1 in 5 Australians (20%) are affected by allergies. Seasonal allergies are provoked by environmental allergens, such as pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds, which become more common during particular seasons. While seasonal allergies for many are mild, in some cases, individuals can feel quite unwell and experience a signific ant impact on their wellbeing. Let’s explore how seasonal allergies can lead to symptoms that cause individuals to feel unwell, the physiological mechanisms behind these effects, and the possible impacts on overall health.

Symptoms: Allergy vs cold or flu

While allergies, the common cold, and the flu may share similar signs, they are distinct conditions with key differences. Here’s a comparison of their symptoms:

1. Allergies Symptoms:

Sneezing
Itchy throat or ears
Runny nose
Coughing
Usually no fever or body aches

These symptoms can last as long as an individual is exposed to the allergen, often for weeks or months during allergy season.

2. Common cold symptoms:

Sneezing
Runny or stuffy nose
Mild cough
Sore throat
Chest discomfort
Mild fatigue
Mild body ache

These symptoms may generally last 3 to 10 days.

3. Flu symptoms:

High fever
Fatigue
Body ache
Cough
Headaches
Runny or stuffy nose
Chest discomfort

These symptoms usually last for 1 to 2 weeks.

Key differences:

Fever: Generally present in the flu, but not in allergies or colds.
Body aches: A key characteristic of the flu, not commonly found in allergies or colds.
Itchy eyes and throat: common in allergies, but rare in cold or flu.
Onset: Allergy signs can continue as long as an individual is in contact with allergens, whereas cold and flu symptoms are transient and short-lived, with the flu being the more severe illness.

Also read: Common seasonal allergy symptoms & the best ways to deal with it?

What are severe seasonal allergy symptoms?

Severe seasonal allergy symptoms can greatly impact an individual’s everyday routine and may include:

Severe sneezing
Itchy eyes
Fatigue
Sleep disturbances
Nasal congestion
Chronic coughing
Sore throat
Headaches
Wheezing or shortness of breath

These symptoms can disrupt daily activities, work, or school, and may require medical attention. Also read: Common seasonal allergy symptoms & the best ways to deal with it?

Can seasonal allergies make you feel unwell?

Seasonal allergies can make you feel unwell, even though they do not stem from a virus like influenza or the common cold. Common allergy symptoms include sneezing, nasal congestion, a runny nose, itchy eyes, and throat discomfort, which can result in feelings of fatigue and exhaustion. In some instances, allergies can lead to headaches, sinus pressure, dizziness, and trouble sleeping, contributing to tiredness and general unease. Severe allergic reactions may also induce wheezing or difficulty breathing, particularly in individuals with asthma. Although allergies do not produce fever or body aches like the flu, their ongoing symptoms can still result in a sick feeling.

Can allergies cause a fever?

Allergies are not responsible for causing a fever. Seasonal allergies provoke an immune response to allergens such as pollen, dust, or pet dander, resulting in symptoms like sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes, and a runny nose, but they do not elevate body temperature. Allergies can cause inflammation in the sinuses, potentially leading to a sinus infection, also known as sinusitis. In such cases, a low fever may occur, but this is due to the infection rather than the allergies themselves. If you find yourself experiencing allergy symptoms alongside fever, body aches, or chills, it’s more likely that you might have a cold or the flu. Additionally, there could be another infection at play rather than merely allergies. Consulting with a doctor can provide clarity on the underlying cause of your symptoms.

What are the stages of an allergic reaction?

An allergic reaction occurs in three main stages, as the immune system responds to an allergen:

Sensitisation stage (initial exposure): During the first encounter with an allergen (such as pollen, pet dander, or specific foods), your immune system mistakenly perceives it as a threat. It generates IgE antibodies that bind to immune cells known as mast cells and basophils, priming your body for future contact. At this point, you may not notice any symptoms.
Early-phase reaction (immediate response): When you are exposed to the allergen again, the IgE-activated mast cells release histamine and other substances, leading to symptoms such as sneezing, itching, swelling, hives, congestion, or watery itchy eyes. This response occurs within minutes to an hour after re-exposure.
Late-phase reaction (delayed response): In some instances, symptoms may escalate or linger for hours or even days as the immune system continues to react. Inflammatory cells migrate to the affected regions, causing swelling, redness, prolonged congestion, and in severe cases, difficulty breathing. This phase is often seen in asthma or severe allergic reactions.

How to deal with seasonal allergies?

Minimise exposure to allergens: Stay indoors on days with high pollen counts, particularly in the morning when counts peak. Keep windows shut and utilise air purifiers with HEPA filters to minimise the burden of indoor allergens. Shower and change your outfit after being outdoors to eliminate pollen.
Utilise medications: Antihistamines can aid in alleviating sneezing, itching, and a runny nose. Nasal sprays, including corticosteroids, may help ease congestion and reduce inflammation. Decongestants such as pseudoephedrine can provide temporary relief from nasal congestion but are not recommended for long-term use.
Try natural remedies: Saline nasal rinses can assist in clearing allergens from the nasal passages. Consuming honey might contribute to building tolerance to local pollen over time. Breathing in steam can help alleviate nasal congestion and calm irritated airways.
Boost your immune system: Consuming a well-balanced diet rich in vitamin C and omega-3 fatty acids supports immune health. Staying well-hydrated helps keep the nasal passages clear. Ensuring adequate sleep and handling stress effectively can help prevent allergy symptoms from becoming more severe.
Explore desensitisation therapies: For severe and chronic allergies, immunotherapy (allergy shots or tablets) may assist in desensitising your immune system gradually. It is advisable to consult an allergist if symptoms remain unmanageable with over-the-counter options.

When to contact a doctor?

You should reach out to a healthcare professional if allergy symptoms become more intense, continue for a long time, or disrupt your everyday activities. Get medical help if you notice wheezing, difficulty breathing, a feeling of tightness in the chest, or swelling in your face or throat, as these could signal a severe reaction. Regular sinus infections, headaches, or worsening asthma symptoms also necessitate a visit to the doctor. If over-the-counter drugs and home treatments fail to offer relief, a doctor can suggest more powerful medications or conduct allergy tests. For life-threatening reactions such as anaphylaxis, which may include trouble breathing or a swift drop in blood pressure, seek urgent medical assistance right away.

Telehealth with a healthcare provider

Virtual healthcare consultations provide a simple way to address allergies without the need for an in-person clinic visit. Through online appointments, a doctor can evaluate symptoms, suggest treatments, and prescribe medications when necessary. They can help identify triggers, recommend lifestyle modifications, and determine whether allergy testing or immunotherapy is necessary. Telehealth is particularly beneficial for individuals with severe allergies, asthma, or ongoing sinus problems, enabling them to receive specialised care from the comfort of their homes. If symptoms intensify or resemble those of other medical conditions, a healthcare professional can advise on whether to seek in-person testing or emergency treatment. Hola Health’s telehealth service provides a convenient way to manage flu symptoms quickly and effectively:

Telehealth consultations: Connect with a doctor 24/7 for an assessment of your allergy symptoms and tailored treatment advice.
Instant scripts: Receive electronic scripts for covid oral antivirals or other medications, ready for local pharmacy pickup or same day delivery.
Dr referrals: If further care is needed, your doctor can provide specialist referrals.
Medical certificates: Easily obtain a medical certificate if the seasonal allergies impact your ability to work or study.

In conclusion, while seasonal allergies can make people feel sick due to signs such as congestion, tiredness, and headaches, they are manageable with the appropriate treatment. By using medications, avoiding irritants, and making lifestyle adjustments, people can reduce the impact of allergies and improve their quality of life.

Reference

Parliament of Australia - reference link

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