Pain From Allergies

Pain and Inflammation From Allergies

You wouldn't think of allergies as a cause of pain, but they can and do. In this case, the body overreacts to an allergen, and there is a release of histamine that triggers an inflammatory response in the joints and muscles, particularly in the back, neck, and joints. Sometimes nerves also become more sensitive. While those with autoimmune disorders tend to respond more dramatically with aches and pain, anyone can experience these systemic reactions.

It stands to reason that control of allergies would help ease these aches and pains

Many types of allergens can cause this: Mold, dust mites, foods, chemicals, pets, pollen, and others. For more information on recognizing and controlling these allergies, explore specific pages about allergies.

Controlling Pain From Allergies

Over-the-Counter Medicines

​​The following is a discussion about some pain medications you might try and a list of medicinal and non-medicinal approaches to pain. This information applies to many cases of pain, but not all. Be sure to check your contraindications and to follow all instructions on the package. If you have any questions, be sure to discuss them with a healthcare provider.

Antihistamines: These may help if there is localized swelling and inflammation from an allergic reaction. Common over-the-counter medicines in this category include Antihistamines: Try to control your allergies with these. Some of the more common of these are diphenhydramine (common: Benadryl) (Note: may produce drowsiness), cetirizine (common: Zyrtec)(Note: may produce drowsiness), fexofenadine (common: Allegra) and loratadine (common: Claritin).

NSAIDS:  These include Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil), Naproxen (Aleve), and Aspirin and are quite effective in decreasing pain in many cases. They are always good medications to start with if you are having pain, especially pa,in from inflammation (almost all pain has some element of inflammation). BUT on a long-term basis, these medicines can cause gastric ulcers and bleeding as well as kidney and blood pressure issues, so beware - alternate your pain medications (NSAIDS) if possible - ibuprofen to Tylenol or a prescription medicine. Speak to your PCP about this and also consider taking a stomach acid-reducing medicine (common: omeprazole/Prilosec or famotidine/Pepcid and others) while taking NSAIDs. Remember: Aspirin thins your blood and can make you bleed more easily.

Acetaminophen (common: Tylenol), on the other hand, is not an anti-inflammatory but a pain reliever instead. This is also a good medication but used long term, can cause liver problems. Again, consider alternating this with ibuprofen every few weeks or speak to your PCP about getting another prescription pain medication.

Take as directed on the bottle.

Note: Antihistamines can be taken with ibuprofen or acetaminophen.

Topical Pain Relievers

• Menthyl salicylate (an anti-inflammatory related to aspirin)

• Voltaren/diclofenac

  
  

Considered Herbal and Other Natural Remedies

• Curcumin

• Glucosamine

• Ginger

• Peppermint

Prescriptive Treatments

• High dose ibuprofen (800 mg) or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatories.

If you have any questions about your pain or allergies, consult with a healthcare provider. Treat early.