Many studies have shown that people with allergic rhinitis have problems with mood and energy. In a survey of 2500 people with allergies, nearly 1 in 4 people felt embarrassed as a result of their allergy symptoms, more than one-third felt depressed, and over half felt irritable or miserable because of their allergies. In addition, 80% of this group felt tired as a result of their allergy symptoms. The reasons for these findings are not completely understood, but a number of factors may contribute.
First, the effects of allergy upon sleep can have a significant impact on psychological functioning.
Second, we know that multiple different chemicals are elevated in the bloodstream during allergic reactions, which can affect energy and mood. In addition, commonly used allergy medications, particularly older antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine) and oral decongestants (e.g., pseu-doephedrine), may also cause patients to feel tired, depressed, and/or anxious. It makes sense, therefore, that effective treatment of allergies may improve a per-son’s mood and energy level.