Do Allergies Make You Sick and Tired?
Do you constantly feel run-down, congested, and exhausted?
You might think it’s just a lingering cold, but allergies could be the real culprit. Seasonal allergies, hay fever, and allergic asthma can cause symptoms beyond itchy eyes and watery eyes—they can leave you feeling drained and sick every day.
If you're struggling with allergy symptoms, it’s time to take control of your health. Schedule an appointment today to find lasting relief. Call us to schedule your consultation.
How allergies leave you feeling sick and fatigued
Allergies don’t just trigger sneezing and congestion, they can take a toll on your entire body. When your immune system overreacts to allergens, it produces inflammation throughout your system, leading to a variety of frustrating symptoms. Common allergies include:
- Pollen (from trees, grass, and weeds like ragweed)
- Dust mites
- Pet dander (dogs, cats, and other animals)
- Mold spores
- Cockroach droppings
- Food allergies (such as nuts, dairy, shellfish, soy, and eggs)
- Perfumes and strong odors
- Smoke and air pollution
These allergens can cause symptoms like rhinitis, congestion, headaches, brain fog, fatigue, and even trouble sleeping—making it feel like you’re constantly battling a cold.
Many people also experience allergic asthma, which can lead to breathing difficulties, wheezing, and a persistent cough. Over time, untreated allergies can contribute to sinus infections, chronic fatigue syndrome, and even weakened immune responses, making you more susceptible to colds and other infections.
If you frequently wake up feeling congested or have difficulty breathing through your nose, your allergies could be affecting your sleep, leading to excessive daytime drowsiness, irritability, and difficulty concentrating.
Why you should get an allergy test at Cumberland Valley ENT Identifying the specific allergens that trigger your symptoms is the first step toward relief. At Cumberland Valley ENT, our expert allergists offer comprehensive testing to accurately determine what’s causing your symptoms so we can create a personalized treatment plan.
- Quick and painless testing, including the skin prick test, intradermal test, and blood tests
- Identifies a range of allergens, from seasonal allergies to food allergies and pet dander
- Customized treatment options for lasting relief
- Helps prevent chronic sinus infections and other complications
The skin prick test is the most common method used to detect allergies to pollen, dust mites, mold, pet dander, and food allergens. It involves placing small amounts of potential allergens on the skin and observing reactions.
However, if you typically have a severe allergic response (anaphylaxis), intradermal or blood tests may be your best option. Knowing exactly what triggers your symptoms allows for targeted allergy relief, rather than simply masking symptoms with over-the-counter medications.
Allergy treatment options for long-term relief
Once you know what’s causing your symptoms, the right relief plan can make all the difference. Common treatments include:
- Antihistamines (like cetirizine) to reduce symptoms
- Immunotherapy (allergy shots or drops) to build tolerance
- Nasal sprays and decongestants for congestion relief
- Lifestyle adjustments like using air purifiers and avoiding triggers
- Natural remedies such as saline rinses, steam inhalation, and herbal antihistamines
Why treatment matters:
- Prevents long-term complications like sinus infections and chronic inflammation
- Improves quality of life by reducing fatigue, brain fog, and irritability
- Supports better sleep health, helping you wake up refreshed and alert
Cumberland Valley ENT offers expert guidance on the best treatment options to help you feel better faster.
Want a treatment option that lasts without harmful medication symptoms?
For some allergy sufferers, long-term nasal congestion can lead to chronic sinus issues that don’t improve with standard treatments. When your sinuses remain inflamed and blocked due to untreated rhinitis, hay fever allergy, or frequent exposure to allergens, you may develop chronic sinus infections that impact your ability to breathe and function daily.
Signs you might need Balloon Sinuplasty:
- Chronic nasal congestion that doesn’t improve with medication
- Recurrent sinus infections or facial pressure
- Difficulty breathing through your nose, even in allergy off-seasons
- Frequent headaches and post-nasal drip
- A reduced sense of smell or taste
Benefits of Balloon Sinuplasty:
- Minimally invasive, in-office procedure
- Quick recovery time (usually within a few days)
- Provides lasting sinus relief without traditional surgery
- Restores normal sinus drainage, reducing infections and congestion
If allergies are causing ongoing sinus issues, it may be time to explore Balloon Sinuplasty as a solution.
How to manage allergies at home
Even with proper medical care, managing allergies in your daily life can make a big difference. Some tips to reduce exposure to allergens include:
- Keep windows closed during high pollen seasons
- Use HEPA filters in your home and car
- Wash bedding and vacuum regularly to remove dust mites
- Limit pet exposure if dander is a trigger
- Wear sunglasses and hats outdoors to keep pollen away from your face
- Take showers after spending time outside to remove allergens from hair and skin
- Use a humidifier to maintain moisture in dry indoor air
Take the next step toward relief
Allergies don’t have to control your life. Whether you need an allergy test, targeted treatments, or sinus relief, Cumberland Valley ENT is here to help. Call today to schedule your allergy consultation.
Cumberland Valley ENT
11110 Medical Campus Road, Suite 126
Hagerstown, MD 21742
Office Hours
Mon - Fri: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
Phone: (301) 241-7591
Fax: (301) 714-4385
Billing: (301) 714-4376
Clinic Hours
ENT Consultants/Hearing Care Center
Mon - Fri: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Allergy Department
Mon: Closed
Tues & Thurs: 7:30 am - 5:30 pm
Wed: 7:30 am - 5:00 pm
Fri: 7:30 am - 4:00 pm