Self-Medicating During Allergy Season can Lead to Mental Impairment | WPN World People News

Seasonal allergies and asthma may not seem like anything serious. But when these conditions are misdiagnosed and not properly treated, can lead to disrupted sleep and mental impairment.

“When patients begin to sniffle and sneeze in the spring months, they assume they are just one of the millions of Americans that suffer from seasonal allergies,” said allergist Kevin McGrath, MD, fellow of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI). “This form of self-diagnosis and treatment greatly increase the risk of disturbed sleep and further health complications. Sufferers should see a board-certified allergist for proper diagnosis and treatment.”

Many sufferers seek over-the-counter relief when allergy and asthma symptoms strike. But many don’t realize this can also be a bad habit. According to the ACAAI, over-the-counter (OTC) medications, such as decongestants and first generation antihistamines, can cause sleep disruption and mental impairment, including:

Decreased decision-making
Irritability
Increased risk of motor vehicle accidents
Memory impairment
Impaired eye-hand coordination
School and work injuries
Fatigue
Activity limitation
Misdiagnosed and undertreated seasonal allergy and asthma symptoms can also lead to sleep apnea, which can progress into life-threatening cardiac issues.

“Sleep apnea can lead to significant cardiac problems, such as increased risk of a heart attack, congestive heart failure, stroke, and diabetes,” said Dr. McGrath. “When the body’s oxygen supply is limited due to congestion or wheezing, there is an increased risk for putting strain on the heart.”

The earlier allergy and asthma are diagnosed and treated by an allergist, the better sufferers will feel and the less risk they have for other health complications.

“Allergies and asthma are serious diseases that, when properly diagnosed and treated, can be effectively managed,” said allergist Richard Weber, MD, ACAAI president. “Anyone with allergies and asthma should be able to feel good, be active all day and sleep well at night. No one should accept less.”

source: American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology