Reduced vigilance and cognitive functioning is associated with allergic rhinitis. Recently, decrements in vigilance and cognitive functioning have been associated with ragweed-induced allergic rhinitis. Wilken JA, Berkowitz R, Kane R. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2002; 89:372-380.
High level of comorbidity in greater than 40,000 cases of allergic rhinitis included an increase in the incidence of migraines, depression, and anxiety. This supports the “systemic” effects associated with all rhinitis. Crystal-Peters J, Neslusan CA, Smith MW, Togias A. Health care costs of allergic rhinitis-associated conditions vary with allergy season. Ann Allergy Asthman Immunol. 2002;89:457-462.
The mechanisms are not clear but perhaps numerous “chemical” cytokines released with the IGE-allergen reaction may trigger conditions already present. In Fibromyalgia and Chronic fatigue for example, we’ve found that managing the allergies helps reduce the fatigue, depression, yeast infections and pain. Perhaps by rebalancing the immune function (TH1 and TH2 cells reducing inflammation etc…)
Available prescription medications that may be helpful:
- Lexapro is the most selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor. It has been very helpful in patients with the depression and anxiety that accompany chronic illness.
- Wellbutrin SR seems to have both norepinephrine and dopamine modulating effects that help especially with fatigue, apathy, lowered productivity and trouble concentrating.
- Effexor X-R has norepinephrine, serotonin and norepinephrine effects and has modulating effects.
- Remeron has both serotonin and norepinephrine effects and has strong antihistaminic actions which help with sleep.
- Cymbalta, Neurontin, and Lyrica
- NSAIDS (non-steroidal antinflammatory drugs) which can be non-prescription such as: Ibuprofen [Motrin, Advil], Naprosen [Aleve] and by prescription: Relafen, Volataren, Toradol, etc…These drugs help relieve inflammation.
- Flexeril and Soma act as muscle relaxants.
- Viox and Celebrex are newer NSAIDS which have fewer side effects than the earlier NSAIDS.
- Some supplements may be of benefit such as: Magnesium, Malic Acid, Melatonin, Relora, Rhodiola, Fish Oils, Flax Seed, Stevia (which helps control blood sugar and yet is a natural sweetener), Turmeric (a natural antinflammatory), Chromium and various other antinflammatory prescriptions and supplements.
Hypnosis works quite effectively as a tool for pain management and reduction as well. Eleanor uses her own protocols individually tailored to specific issues and problems for greatest effectiveness. Part of this technique does involve self-discipline in listening to audio tapes of the hypnosis session and activating oneself to heal.
