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What is the Connection Between Allergies and Dizziness?

K.C. Bruning
K.C. Bruning

Several allergies have dizziness as one of their symptoms. The primary connection between allergies and dizziness is that many conditions affect the ears and the Eustachian tube within them, which is important in helping the body to maintain balance. Dizziness can also be the result from the body working overtime to protect itself from allergens. Treating ear pressure and congestion in the chest and nose can alleviate both allergies and any dizziness caused by them.

Allergies often affect the proper functioning of the Eustachian tube, which regulates balance in the human body. The tube connects the middle ear to the pharynx, which is a part of the throat. When it is functioning properly, the Eustachian tube drains mucus from the middle ear. If the tube becomes swollen due to allergies, mucus becomes trapped, and it is no longer able to equalize pressure in the area and thus maintain balance in the body. This is a common connection between allergies and dizziness.

A low blood pressure is commonly associated with allergies and dizziness.
A low blood pressure is commonly associated with allergies and dizziness.

When the immune system is attacked it goes into protective mode. An overwhelming attack, such as when the air is suddenly filled with particles containing allergens, can prove such a shock to the body that it essentially goes into overdrive trying to fight the intrusion. The double shock of allergens and the strong reaction of the body to them can lead to dizziness.

Dizziness, especially when paired with facial or throat swelling, could be an early sign of anaphylaxis.
Dizziness, especially when paired with facial or throat swelling, could be an early sign of anaphylaxis.

Some of the symptoms associated with allergies and dizziness include vertigo, shortness of breath, light-headedness, and confusion. A lowered blood pressure is also common. It is important to treat these symptoms while they are still mild. If ignored, allergy-associated dizziness can lead to anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction which can be fatal.

A severe allergic reaction might cause a fainting spell.
A severe allergic reaction might cause a fainting spell.

There are several methods which can be tried to alleviate dizziness caused by allergies. Anti-histamines, decongestants, and nasals sprays can all relieve congestion and unblock the ears and nasal passages, thus helping the body to balance more effectively. The inhaled steroid corticosteroid can also help to alleviate symptoms.

Dizziness associated with allergies is best averted by avoiding the allergens that cause a reaction. With food allergies, the items in question must be completely avoided. If the condition comes from airborne particles, an air purifier may ward off both allergies and dizziness associated with them. As pollen allergies are a common cause of illness, avoiding spending too much time outdoors during the months when the pollen count is high can also help. Keeping surroundings clean and dust-free may also avert some allergy-related discomfort, including dizziness.

Discussion Comments

anon926457

I've experienced this kind of reaction for the past two years, very intensely. Do you still read this forum?

turquoise

Vertigo is a cause of dizziness and it's caused by fluid and pressure in the inner ear triggered by an allergic reaction. I'm being treated for this right now.

SteamLouis

@ZipLine-- I understand what you're going through. I have a cat allergy and the symptoms you described are very familiar to me.

I asked my doctor about this once and he said that we have sensitive nerves connected to our nose, throat and ear passages. When there is an allergic reaction which causes inflammation and sensitivity in these areas, it also affects our nerves.

That's why we tend to feel foggy when we get allergies and some people also get migraines, dizziness, loss of balance and even nausea.

When you feel an allergy flare-up coming on, you need to take your medications to prevent it from getting this bad. Whenever I start to feel foggy and start sneezing, I take my antihistamine. If I don't, I will develop a migraine and dizziness within a few hours.

ZipLine

I have chronic allergies and symptoms that get worse every time the weather changes. Just a few days ago, the weather changed and it has been very humid and windy. My allergies are acting up again. I feel immense pressure in my head and feel dizzy from time to time.

What is the connection between weather, allergies and dizziness? Has anyone else been experiencing something like this?

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    • A low blood pressure is commonly associated with allergies and dizziness.
      By: Doreen Salcher
      A low blood pressure is commonly associated with allergies and dizziness.
    • Dizziness, especially when paired with facial or throat swelling, could be an early sign of anaphylaxis.
      By: jinga80
      Dizziness, especially when paired with facial or throat swelling, could be an early sign of anaphylaxis.
    • A severe allergic reaction might cause a fainting spell.
      By: Helder Almeida
      A severe allergic reaction might cause a fainting spell.
    • Dizziness is one way the body attempts to protect itself from allergens.
      By: volodina
      Dizziness is one way the body attempts to protect itself from allergens.
    • Treating chest congestion can alleviate allergies and dizziness.
      By: Aleksandar Todorovic
      Treating chest congestion can alleviate allergies and dizziness.
    • Those with pollen allergies should avoid being outdoors during allergy season.
      By: FedeCandoniPhoto
      Those with pollen allergies should avoid being outdoors during allergy season.
    • Food allergies may cause dizziness.
      By: jillchen
      Food allergies may cause dizziness.
    • Allergies that cause dizziness may progress to a major emergency that requires immediate medical attention.
      By: blondsteve
      Allergies that cause dizziness may progress to a major emergency that requires immediate medical attention.