severe allergies and fatigue causing me to feel so depressed?

[alana miller]

please someone help! i have been suffering from debilatating allergies/sinus probs, fatigue, and dizziness for about a year now. i do have allergies to mold, dust, milk products, and corn products. my allergy doc says my symptoms are all from allergies, but i have been trying everything 2 avoid the allergens, been getting allergy shots, tried numerous allergy medications, with no help from anything! does anyone else experience this type of thing? i seriously feel like i am getting so depressed. i cant hardly function, let alone enjoy anything. i suffer every single day. please, if anyone has any advice, etc, please let me know.
thanks so much!

[stacia123]

I don't know if I have any advice, but know you're not alone.  I've been on several forums and you'd be surprised how many people have chronic sinus problems or allergies and how it causes such fatigue and depression.  My sinus problems won't go away, and when they flare up it makes me nervous and even gives me panic attacks.  Some days it's almost impossible to get out of bed.  It's frustrating and my experience is that you almost have to force doctors to deal with you, because many just want to dismiss the problems as not being serious.

[LMND]

Check out the rest of the forums here - we've all been talking in several about the same issues.  Know exactly where you're coming from.  So tired and feel so bad you can't function at all....sinus pressure, and seems most of us have had CT Scans, been to ENTs, and been on all the same meds.  So far Prednisone has helped me....but today's my last pill and I'm praying I won't go back to where I was, which was totally unable to function.  I just keep checking this forum every day to see if somebody gets help and post what I've been doing in case it can help someone.  It's caused my panic attacks which I've had for years but under control, to flare up, too.  You are not alone....but no one wants to feel like this!

[betsyll]

hello, I have been suffering too from allegeries. I went to the doctor and he told me I was allergic to my pets. My house is so clean there is not one ounze of dog or cat hair and my car is clean also. I starting taking nasacort, sudafed and he gave me an inhaler. Nothing works. I have shortness of breath, I can't hardly breath.  I am so depressed and tired I can hardly go to work .  I am experiencing the same things as you. Can someone tell me what to do - thanks betsyll

[LMND]

I wish there was something I could say that would help you.  Read some of the other forums here - we've all been discussing it.  I look at all that pertain to me every day hoping somebody's got good news and help.  

I'm almost 4 months like this.  My face/sinus pressure was so bad today that I certainly didn't think I could make it through work.  I take it one day at a time.  I was sick to my stomach from my face hurting.  None of the nasal sprays or meds helped me.  The only thing that helped is Prednisone (steroid) which they only give you for a limited time because they are dangerous and your immune system can't find colds and other things when you're on it.  So I felt normal for a week or so...and now I've been off of them for a week and getting back to feeling bad and the facial pain and pressure.  Whatever this is has certainly changed my life (because I don't feel like I can function) and the others are saying the same thing.  We've gone to our doctors and Ear, Nose, Throat specialists, I've had CT Scan, x-rays, blood work, been to a chiropractor, been given about the same meds. with no help.

Something strange is going on this year....or we all have something that the doctors aren't diagnosing.  I'm going for allergy testing the end of the month.  I do have a cat and bird which I have had for years -- my house is clean...not spotless...because after 4 months of feeling like this I really don't feel like cleaning it!  I've got an air cleaner I keep running in my bedroom - but I can't tell that it's helped.  I just don't know.  The only comfort I can give is you're not alone.

[ponypowa2]

man i have the same problem going to see an alergist this month.
after going through my primary doctor and an endocrinologist, i think maybe i have a severe food allergy somewhere. I love food induced anxiety and panic attacks, they are so much fun

[camelia]

I feel for anyone who suffers from allergies, as I am one of them, some days it is un bearable and I just want to cruel up and die.  My social life has been affected, that there are days when I am unable to socialise because of my allegies are so bad that I do not wnat to face anyone.
I am also under a doctor, and have done everything possible in my home to prevent allegens, but still I wake up every morning - after spending most of the night sneezing - still congested and feeling down and depressed, because I just want to have one day, where I can breath, smell and taste like a normal human being.
I was wondering if anyone has contemplated have sugery ???

[nfriend21]

Guys,
Although I myself don't have any answers, I must say I'm glad I found this thread.  For six weeks now, I have been plagued with seriously extreme fatigue, frontal headache, and a cloudy/confused mental state -- however no mucus whatsoever.  Ive been on an antibiotic (helped for a few days), then a steroid (did not help at all), had a CT Scan -- all to no avail.  My ear/nose/throat Dr. says its my allergies.  My general practitioner says it CANNOT be my allergies since it would be far too strange that all of a sudden I have become utterly debilitated by these allergies at 27, and he just prescribed me with another round of antibiotics, which i have not started taking yet.  He does have some logic behind this -- For one week during this period I was in Hawaii on vacation, which happened to be the week I was finishing the antibiotic.  The final 4 days of my trip -- I felt 100%.  Then, low and behold, I come back home to southern california and within 48 hours all the symptoms described are back in full force.  So he thinks I need another round to kill off whatever bug is in my body.  He also specifically mentioned that many of his patients have had to do multiple rounds of antibiotics because "the bacteria going around this year have become abnormally resistant to traditional antibiotics".  

My ear/nose/throat, of course, laughs at this, convinced its my allergies, of which I have an allergy test appointment on Jan 10.  All he has told me is to take some Claritin-D (which helped for a few days, but not anymore), cover my bed with hypoallergenic ****, and to wait and find out about my allergies, and then get the allergy shots.          I also saw an acupuncturist who worked some magic for about 48 hours as well, but that was all.  

On a side note, I must say this whole experience has left me extremely frustrated, angry, and quite frankly just pissed off because I have spent countless hours researching, visiting doctors, and I honestly dont see an end in sight -- which scares the scrap out of me.    I can only imagine the rest of you who have had these symptoms much longer than myself -- I feel for you.  Empathizing with how horrible we all feel, I promise that if I make any "in-roads" with all these doctors I will immediately post for all to get some relief.  

I do somewhat feel that we may have all caught something nasty that the doctors havnt figured out yet.  For now, I will go back to the place I have devoted the last 45 days of my life:  the friggin couch.    

[LMND]

Dr.s' are "practicing" on us.  My GP said said the same thing about sinus infections becoming resistent to antibiotics.  Then after 3 rounds and no better when he sent me to the ENT, he diagnosed the allergies, same as you.  I did the testing.  I was allergic to everything....but I'm like you, why now all of a sudden would it bother me like this.  I don't think I'll go for the shots.  I think I will use the saline rinse, Singulair and NasaCort and see how I do this summer.  If I get really bad again I guess I'll have to try the shots.  I do not sneeze or cough.  Guess we just have to wait it out or cure ourselves.  I hold down my couch most of the time, also.  Just try to get to work and home.  What a life.

[nikkidarcy31]

Last year i had complete sinus reconstructive surgery. I am still dealing with a lot of the same symptoms. It is very interesting to me how the ENTs and Allergists and Family drs all say conflicting things. Everytime i go to the doctor feeling dizzy nasua fatigue ect. they want to put me on antiboitics for sinus infection and then i go see my ENT he says everything looks good. So now i think before the next doctor treats for sinus infection have them swab your nose to check for infection because when i have them do that it comes up negetive.Two weeks ago i had CAT scan of sinus to prove to my doctor it wasnt my nose anymore. Also my family doctor has said there has been a lot of people coming in with similar symptoms he thinks is a virus.???? I have been dealing with this for over a year and have had the surgery tried the antibiotics allergy meds and its not better. I just wanted to let you know you need to stand up for yourself. Trust but verify.

[nick 123]

to nikkidarcy
demand that your dr.  do a sinus culture

[Scottyg2334]

Hi everyone, Ive been viewing this forum for about 2 months now reading all the differnt links that relate to my condition. I have decided to share my feelings as well.

I Have had allergy/sinus problems for years but not until recently (these last 2 years) have my condition ever been this bad. It's really taking a hold of my life, I have severe fatigue and body aches all over my body, and i hardly ever have any energy. I can barely make it to school and back and I can barely do my job. I have been down so much these past 2 years with depression symptoms and axiety symptoms. Also me and my girlfreind think I have a possible OCD disorder from these allergies/sinus, when i feel fine which is rare I dont have any anxiety, depression or OCD problems(which makes me believe that my depression/anxiety/OCD is related to allergies/Sinus). My life is suffering dramaticaly from these problems, I really need to find some help very soon.

For some added information for everyone, I have been on allergy shots (2 times a week) for several months now, I do see some improvement on some days but other days can be even worse than normal too. I have been to the doctors for my lack of enery several times over the years, and I also recently have been going to the doctors for this sinus problem more frequently to try to find some help. I have been to a ENT doctor, which didnt offer much help to my situation, he made me get a CT scan on my sinuses and the radiologists confirmed that everything looked fine, I went back to him with the results and he said that my problem is most likely from allergies. So i made my way to an allergist and have discovered that I am highly allergic to tress, grass, ragweed, dust/dust mites, and mildly alergic (allergic) to cats.

I'am willing to share my situation with all of you, to help seek a solution to this horrible problem.

[DefaultAllergist]

My allergies: Cats, Dogs, Dust mites, Dust Mites 2 types, Mold, and a few more

Solutions: Air purification, IQair health pro plus, Hypo-allergenic blankets washed in hot water or with an additive or allergy detergetnt, pillow protector, etc,

Go to the nearest allergy and asthma center.

My whole state of mind was altered by allergies. I felt like dying.
I felt like killing. I spent my whole life suffering because of allergies and a terrible at home situation. I got tested for allergies when I was ten because the right side of my face would swell up, after that nothing was done by anyone. I don't remember being told how to take care of myself, the situation was handled extremely poorly. My mom was like your allergic to dust, dust is everywhere. So WTF am I supposed to suffer!

Right now I am in a terrible situation, my family knows that I'm allergic, but they can't relate and don't understand and the don't want to try to understand. It makes me furious I want to kick the **** out of all of them and take a bat to their heads. Thats the allergies talking, They make me psychotic if you ask me. Allergies are terrible and insane.

In july of 2006 I got prescribed flonaise for my allergy disorder " post nasal drip. " This is the first year I have learned how to take care of myself. I am surrounded by the stupidest people on this earth.

I'll post more I'm lazy right now.

[DefaultAllergist]

what no option to edit?

[aznative]

I am sorry to know I am not the only one, but glad you are sharing. I have been dizzy now for almost 2 months, and my doctor has given me nasonex and allegra. I haven't started the allegra yet, but my symptoms are getting worse. The dizzyness is almost all of the time, and especially bad if I move to quick and from sitting to standing. Headaches are getting worse, hard to get rid of. I have had blood work and an exam, and all the Dr. noticed was that my nasal passages were extremely dry. Everything else has checked out great. Most of my different pains are on the right side of my body, for whatever reason.

Here is an article I found on the internet, thought some of you might want to check it out. http://www.drcranton.com/CFIDS.htm  

It is absolutely exhausting feeling like **** everyday.

[JSW2]

Wow! I am amazed! i came across one of the other forums here under sinus problems, im not sure if you have all read them, but there is so many ofus going through this, its absolutely crazy that there isn't a doctor living who is willing or able to help us! I am at the point where i am in so much pain i have to rely on 2-3vicodin every few hours and packing my face w/ ice packs, and then I have to stay laying down cause if i stand or sit up everything spins-- Im afraid to drive ,its like being on a merry go round...  haven't been to work in 2 wks, went to the ER lastweek cause I couldn't take it anymore (I have had this for 2 straight years, every month and this is the worst ever!)   I just keep praying that I will wake up and this will all go away- I am saddened to hear there are so many of us dealing with this, yet relieved to know there is actually people who understand! I was trying to find out if its possible to get accupuncture on your face (im desperate for some relief of this pain in my face and I have 2 more wks to go til my sinus surgery)...Has anyone looked into or done that by any chance?  Im so frustrated with this as im sure you all are-- its taking such a toll on my whole body and mind- i feel worn down,, and I am only 29 yrs old, and other than this, am healthy! It has affected me even being able to do my motherly duties as well as even be able to work! I am praying for all of us!!!

[Levi212]

Here is what is happening to everyone as best as I can make out: you are all ingesting some sort of foreign substance that is causing a complete imbalance of your system, which your body has had bouts with for so long it is completely drained of resources to combat this. I can link this with a possibility that I've researched. It has to do with your air.

There are really two possibilities for what you all are facing and I'll explain simply. The first is what the symptoms are, and that they are recurring. This leads me to believe it is either something that you are all frequently ingesting, whether through diet or normal breathing, or it is something that is dormant in your cells. As it is a common trait between you all, and something that is dormant is not this widespread, I would opt for the former explanation, that it is something that you all ingest regularly.

If you all spend the majority of your time indoors and/or in the same building, I might be able to suggest something. Now I've noticed that this suggestion may not be new as some of you already have these but from some of the research that I've done I can say that the single air purifier units don't really do the job necessary. What I'm suggesting is a Polarized Air Filter, which is rated for an entire home and from my own experience works very well.

I used to have problems with my air, but like you all I couldn't really link it to the air quality. I spoke with a colleague of mine who knew more about it than I, and she told me about this normal problem that can be remedied with this air purifier. I researched it and tried it out for myself and found that she was right in her diagnosis. Based on this I readily suggest this to you all now.

The Polarized Media Filters are a filter that creates a static field around the filter which attracts particles in the air to the fibers of the actual filter. In this way it becomes a much more efficient filter than the normal paper filter which simply stands in the way of the airflow. It's a filter that is simple to work and use and doesn't need a professional to put it in, although most professionals who do install these would most likely recommend it. You would just slide it into your furnace where the normal house filter would usually go.

The best place for price that I've found is at www.airlifeone.com. I'd further look for the Electrobreeze brand which is cheaper than the other but in essence is the same product. And if you have any questions for these people I've found they're very easy to work with.

Now the reason I found that the single room purifiers don't necessarily work is because the nature of air is to move around within any area that it is presented. So essentially this single room purifier is still trying to muscle the entire house from one area. That is unless you close off that room. But with the price of getting one in each room as compared with this one filter I think that you'd be paying a lot more to have an efficient system the other way.

Well, I apologize for this post being so long, but I wanted to make sure I gave enough information to you all to help.

[biggcatt]

I feel your pain; I went back to my primary doctor yesterday for this exact problem. I could handle the seasonal allergies but the dizziness, ear pressure and fatigue was making it impossible to do any thing. My allergist has me on ZertecD 2 times a day and a combination of two sprays mixed in the same bottle (Astelin & Rising) one is a steroid and the other is antihistamine. My primary doctor seems to think that I am suffering from Station Tube Dysfunction caused by the swelling in my sinuses, I haven't found much on the web about it but I was given another steroid called Methylprednisolone and plain Mucinex (not MucinexD or DM) to help treat the swelling or compression of the station tube running from my sinuses to my ear. So far so good but this the first morning of treatment. I plan to update this forum if this helps. I was very pleased to find this page; it helped to know I was not alone.

[biggcatt]

Ok, this is what I found on the web:Eustachian Tube Dysfunction.

I quess with my Eustachian tube blocked all I heard was Station tube.

http://www.csmedcenter.com/HealthToolsAndContent/Article.aspx?chunkiid=100683

[sallyjane1956]

I am happy I found this website. I really didn't believe that there were people like me around. I sent a comment yesterday, but I guess it got lost or I don't know how to do all this.  Anyway, I'm wondering why some researcher couldn't round people like us and try to figure out what is causing this and why we are so sick?  They spend millions on cancer, heart, aids, etc. why can't somebody try to help us?  I'd donate my body to science if they'd figure out the problem to  help others, but I'd rather them figure it out while I'm alive and help me too!

[biggcatt]

I am on my 3rd day of treatment as mentioned above plus it has rained here in Louisville and I am feeling about 80 % better, this leads me to believe that the problems I am having are caused by allergies. I also feel a little better at night when the seasonal allergies are not as high. We have had a very long dry summer, with the lack of rain; record amount of days in the 90's and the start of fall there has been no relief.

As for fatigue and dizziness, this is what I believe is going on (with me any how) The sinuses swell from whatever it is that I am allergic to and puts pressure on the Eustachian tube (the tube running from your sinus to your ear) From there your ears start feel pressure and you begin to feel light headed and dizzy.  I have found that I start to freak out a bit when I feel the ear pressure and it affects my breathing, in other words I start to panic and when you panic you release adrenalin when this happens your breathing changes, you take shallow breaths and deprive your self of the oxygen your body needs causing you to feel dizzy and flat wore out. If you have ever had a full blown panic attack then you know what I am talking about, I don’t have a full panic attack but the same thing is going on in my body to cause the sensations that I am having. I do admit that this is the worst allergy year for me but I understand that we had a mild winter and a long summer. I can only pray for snow at this point.

I hope if nothing else that somebody will relate to what I am saying and try to minimize your symptoms buy remaining calm and holding out for that first frost.

[PlateletGal]

Thanks for your link on CFIDS. I have CFIDS and for many years, thought my symptoms were due to severe allergies ! I remember they gave me allergy shots and they made me so ill the following day. My allergist insisted that I continue with the shots, but I refused to. Years later, physicians' told me that I did the right thing. I have since learned that sublingual therapy and homeopathy are the best treatments for allergies (my opinion.. of course). For those people here with muscle aches, dizziness, heart palpitations, headaches, sinusitis and other symptoms... I recommend checking out the CFIDS Association of America website and taking their quiz, "Do I Have CFIDS"? I would also recommend going without sugar, dairy products, wheat (gluten) and corn (including cornstarch) for at least 3 weeks. One thing I learned is there are people who are intolerant to wheat, but do not have Celiac Disease. Also intolerance to wheat (gluten) is common in patients with CFIDS.

[lindle]

I have just put a comment under 'Allergies, Chemical intolerance and Endometriosis' and just read this thread. My first reaction is to wonder how many of these posts are from women. Please read my post and see if anything in my situation is similar to yours. My case must be extreme and most people probably wouldn't go on to get what I did but I am convinced that the reason that some women's life is hell with allergies is that they also have an intolerance to oestrogen and their immune systems juggle hormone imbalances with all these other infections and allergens. Are any of you having period or cyclic symptoms but perhaps not making connections? Keep a diary and note your symptoms every day including if you have any infections (women obviously!) and see if your dizziness, brain fog etc increases mid cycle. We are so used to being told everything is PMS that you might not be aware of anything happening at ovulation. Buy a home ovulation kit and find out what day you ovulate and see you have peculiar symptoms at that time - or in the days around it. A female friend of mine suffers just like the people posting these comments with multiple allergies and she got really ill with fatigue etc. Another friend, a gynaecologist, suggested she take a low oestrogen contraceptive pill to see if it made any difference if she stopped ovulating and she has never looked back. She is 48 though and this would not be a long-term treatment for a young girl as it could thin the bones but it might identify if an oversensitivity to oestrogen is involved. The pill she uses is called Cerazette.

[lindle]

Just to add to my comment - I had continuous catarrh and infections from the age of mid 20's till 50 with antibiotcs every few months throughout, umpteen nasal sprays plus a septplasty and grommet insertion. That operation was only 6 years ago and was horrendous. The grommet was instantly and massively infected and the infection felt as if it was raging through my head for the next 3 years regardless of any antibiotics. The timing of that op coincided exactly with having an HRT implant in and that was when hell even previously unknown set it. So the op made no difference at all. BUT from about 9 months after the last of the oestrogen would have ran out in my system (after the last implant) I never had another infection again after what had been continous ones for the previous 25 years or so!! AND the dizziness and general apparent brain malfunction finally went too. I still have bad right side head pain (my infections were all right-sided) and squelching noises there every time I move but think there must be some fluid trapped somewhere after the last raging infection that is yet to be resolved. But oestrogen was without doubt what sent my immune system so over the edge that it could not cope with anything else.

[sallyjane1956]

Well, I think I have found out what my problem is.  Its Texas!  I left for several days (once to New Orleans and once to Missouri) and was fine the whole time I was gone.  As soon as I got back in my area I started sneezing and having sinus burning, and as soon as I got home the dizziness started again.  Part of me is relieved because maybe I don't have a brain tumor or something  horrible, but next question is, now what?  I live on a family ranch and there's no way I can move.  It was so wonderful not to be sick, even for a little while.  Funny thing is my mind was even more alert, I wasn't clumsy and bumping into stuff, and no headaches!  Guess my allergy shots were a waste of time & money! Maybe I need to concentrate on enhancing my immune system?

[Laumandu]

Hi everyone.  Reading this forum is making me realise what a massive problem this is.  I have been suffering teribbly with allergy/sinus problems and have been off work for 4 months. Saw 2 ENTs before finally being referred to an allergy specialist and had the testing done- found dust, pollenn, cat etcs allergies.  I have horrible face/neck pain, headaches and a feeling of my throat being constantly clogged up.  It has made me so down I keep crying and feels like its taking over my life.  Im meant to be marrying next year and should be the happiest ive ever been, but instead of that some days i feel like giving up.  I don't want to live like this.  Im on so many different medications and nothing seems to work for me.  Currently on antibiotic, steroid nose drops and antihistimines and have anti-allergy bedding etc etc.  Still i suffer.  I can't remember what its like to wake up feeling well.  I miss my job, my life and some days its unbearable.

I too feel that doctors aren't doing enough and don't seem to fully understand how awful allergies can be. Until i got diagnosed with a specialist i felt like my doctor didn't really believe it was anything.  Its so frustrating when you know your  own body but you feel people don't understand.  Ive felt ive had to push all the time for help and finally ive got diagnosed.  Some use that is though when nothing helps me.  I would recommend anyone suffering in this way to keep pushing the doctors and don't just be fobbed off.

Im sat up writing this as today has been yet another awful day and i can't sleep.  

I wish you all the best of luck and I hope we all find a way through this nightmare.

[Laumandu]

Just wanted to ask , have you been tested for dust mite allergy?  I have found that anti allergy bedding at least helps me not to sneeze too much in the night

[sallyjane1956]

How do we know when we're allergic to our houses?  I live in an old house, and we are trying to get rid of the carpet, but in the process, we're having to do some repairs, as we found some moldy places.  All the stirring up the dust is really hard, but I hope it helps.  Is there a way to find out if our house is toxic to us?  I really feel sorry for Laumandu, but keep on trying.  Something odd that happened yesterday.  I was just SO dizzy that I could hardly stand it.  I kept dropping stuff and knocking stuff over.  I sat at the kitchen table, put my head down on the table and cried and cried. Of course, I was praying for help from God.  Well, either God helped me, or something relieved pressure or something, because that afternoon, I felt much better.  Who knows.  Any ideas?

[Laumandu]

Hi Sally,   Im really sorry you are suffering so much. I too feel that my house may be the problem as its an old house and seems to have a mouldy smell in one of the bedrooms but im unsure where its coming from as theres no visable mould.  I think you are doing the right thing getting rid of the carpet as that should help.  Im unable to in my house as im only renting and so am stuck with the carpets unfortunately.  At times I wonder if this house is making me sick as I was okay before I moved here 18mths ago.  I spend most of my time here as I have had to go off sick from work and despite my treatments I still am not much better.  Its so wearing at times and I understand exactly how you must feel.  I have days when I get so upset as its exhausting feeling like this so much.  I do wonder at times 'is it the house'?   Maybe its the dust as its an old house and I do have a dust allergy.  It feels like my allergies have got out of control though, going from hayfever to being constant and severe at times.  Im currently on steroids and antibiotics and they arent' giving me much relief.
I have just ordered buffered vitamin C tablets and garlic oil capsules as a lady on the forum told me this helped her alot, as vitamin c is meant to be a natural antihistime. I am going to give this a try and see if it helps me too.  She was suffering badly and says it has improved her symptoms alot.  Anything is worth a try. Unfortunately the treatments the doctor gives don't seem to do much, so Im trying any alternative as im so desperate.  If anyone out there knows of anything that works???
My symptoms suddently got worse from May onwards and I haven't a clue why.  I can't think of anything I am eating or drinking or breathing differently!

I hope your symptoms settle Sallyjane as I understand the nightmare that it is.  Its helped me alot discovering this forum as it makes you realise there are so many of us out there suffering who understand how awful it can be.

[sallyjane1956]

Thanks for responding.  I've tried some C supplements too, but have to be careful with meds.  I recently bought a couple of air filters that helped me a lot.  They're Honeywell 50250s.  I got them online on sale if you're interested.  Anyway, I'm also not working for the same reason.  Its just too much effort.  Most people just have no idea and think I'm nuts.  I don't know where you live or why you have to stay there, but I'd move so fast it wouldn't be funny, especially since you say you weren't sick before.  I'd find the newest, cleanest, smallest space I could find.  It could be something in your environment outside though.  That's why I bought the air filters.
I had a sister that had allergies really really bad all her life, she died of heart attack, but I worked for her and learned how to live in an allergy free house, sort of.  Unfortunately, it's taken my husband 10 years to figure out that this is serious.   We live in the country, and there was a huge fire near us 2 years ago and that's when all the vertigo started.  I had a horrible sinus infection and lung infection after the fire and it took me 4 months to get better.  I think something may have happened in my inner ear or something, because I"ve never been the same since.  I would have never thought that allergy could make somebody feel so bad.  I think I hear my sister talking to me beyond the grave, saying "see, I told you so!"

[Laumandu]

Hi Sally, thanks for replying.  My partner and I have had a chat and decided we are going to move.  We have seen a house that looks much better and are going to go and see it.  I think your right, I need to get out of here.  My partners son has been sneezing and itching since staying this weekend, and so I think this house is just not healthy.
I understand what you mean by peoples thoughts on it, as I have the same thing, people just don't see allergies as a serious thing do they.  They have no idea how much they can change your life for the worse and make you depressed.  I wouldn't wish that on anyone.  I have to go back to work soon or I lose my pay, but am so worried as im still suffering alot with it.  Its been good to find this site as I feel a little better by being connected to other people who understand what its like to live with.

Ive tried air filters but they havent' helped much for me unfortunately. I think moving house would be a start hopefully. We hope to be moving end December.

I live in England (UK) near a town.  I wish you all the best and hope things get better for you.

[sallyjane1956]

I am curious is any of you suspect there might be a correlation between severe allergies and high cholesterol?  All my siblings have both... Any of you?

[Laumandu]

Hi Sally, Not that Im aware of I don't think so

[RoseThorn]

The problem is to take a pill or use allergy relieves which are chemicals I don't think does any good. We only treating the symptoms. So many people has allergies now days and I think the reason is because we take too much chemicals and our body can't deal with normal circumstances any more and over reacts. I've been using Mite Nix in my home for years, which is organic and natural, I would not wanna use anything else. Just makes more sense for me to use something that has no chemicals in it.

[ckl1969]

Hello! I'am so glad I came across this page.  Like all of you I have suffered from headaches,facial pressure,sneezing ,clear nose running and upper jaw soreness.  This is an everyday thing for me.  Last fall I finally went to an ENT. He did a CT Scan and determined I had an deviated septum. I had the surgery and It didnt work at all.  I still have all the same symptons.  I'am going back to him on Friday.  I'am going to have him refer me to an allergist.  I feel so much better reading everyones story. I was convinced for awhile I had some sort of brain tumor.  Because of this I have had anxiety attacks.  I was perscribed Zanax.  When I'am feeling really bad I take one.  Wish me luck at the ENT. CKL

[Soonerman]

I would suggest researching Candida, just google it or maybe read the book "The Yeast Connection".  Almost all of the symptoms I have read are caused by the overgrowth of this candida fungus.  Moldy homes can worsen the symptoms of Candida overgrowth, new carpet smells as well as other chemical smells cause reactions and worsen symptoms in Candida patients.  Numerous allergies can be caused by candida, chronic fatigue, anxiety, and depression are caused by candida overgrowth.  Not saying all depressed people have a candida problem...but it is something that fits the symptoms I have read.  CFIDS is basically a made-up name that describes the symptoms, chronic fatigue and immune disfunction, and studies have indicated a link between CFIDS and candida; that is why many/most do better without sugar, gluten and have food allergies.  

Avoid sugar and yeast products and even try anti-fungals, see if you get better.  Most are able to handle food they were previously allergic to after removing/treating the Candida.

[Ali_Goner]

I have been having severe allergy symptoms for almost eleven months, fatigue, inflammation,  joint pain, shortness of breath, wheezy, hypersensitivity, rashes etc. this all started after a trip to the Dominican when I took Cipro to prevent infection from contaminated water or food. I had a severe reaction to the drug. Every since then it's been all downhill. It's as if my immune system went completely haywire. I've been on antibioitc, antivirals, seeing doctors every since but to no avail. Prednisone has not even worked. I've even had 2 bouts of shingles. I'm in a great deal of pain and so frustrated! Has anyone else had this type of experience with Cipro?

[Kang99]

I too suffer from severe allergies, have been since 1975. My experience
is that doctors are useless because I have tried them of course. Sometimes I wonder why they are even in business except to get money from desperate people. When you are drowning I guess you grasp at straws.

Thankfully I do not suffer from depression or fatigue but my biggest problem is runny nose, almost constant runny nose so I blow my nose a lot. Mucous gets into my lungs and I have to cough up the mucous
and spit.

Has anyone tried wearing a mask? If pollen is causing our problems
I am certainly willing to wear a mask around the house or when sleeping
if it will help.

[dancingblondie]

Hi - I have severe allergies, too.  They seem to get worse, the older that I get.  I have had sinus surgery, and it almost seems worse now!  I am allergic to everything, and yes, it is very frustrating, and can make you feel very sad.  I have tried all medicines.  The prednisone does help for a while, but as someone stated they won't give it to you for long.  I am on antibiotics now, and woke up at 3am with an itching, allergic reaction, and my throat on fire, red, red, red.  Called my doctor, doubled my antihistimine, nasal sprays, etc.  Do sinus rinses.  I do have 2 dogs, but try to keep the house clean.  I am actually thinking of paying someone to do the cleaning now!  I have been tested, but have not started regular shots, because I am not sure it is worth it, to have to wait 1-3 years, to see if it even works.  Especially, having to pay a co-pay for each shot. I am just not sure what to do anymore either....   I do wear a mask when cleaning.

[rashaell]

I have allergies to fresh fruits, all trees (except the sycamore) and cats, tomatoes...etc...to say the least, during the season, i'm miserable.  I've tried claritan, singular, zyrtec, etc, etc.  They worked once but now, nothing...interesting, i doubled up on meds and was still miserable so to go to sleep so i didn't have to deal with it any longer, i took Nyquil....odd thing happened, my allergies went away....i looked on the label and noticed it had a different kind of antihistamine then my usual medication....could it be i found the key?  I doubt, but maybe some of you can try too and see if it helped you?!!!!  Good luck, i'm going to try again and see, was it luck or reality?

[AB81]

I have severe allergies too.  I have tried everything you can think of.  My nose runs constantly, sometimes all night and it keeps me awake.  Last night I was awake all night sneezing and coughing and then I could barely make it at work.  I feel like a zombie because I hardly ever get a good night's sleep anymore.  I have to take sleeping pills to knock me out so that I can get any sleep at all.  I'm miserable and no medication seems to help me.  But it is nice to know that there are other people who feel the way that I do.  I know what you are going through and I am thinking about you.

[katiejmarr]

I went through that about 5 years ago and found an incredible solution.   It's basically a "diet" book and I realized every time I did it my allergies were so much better.  I contacted them through their website and found out they have this biochemistry testing that shows you exactly what your body is lacking/needing.  I was in a depression, fatigued and had so many allergies.  Now my immune system is so strong, I'm sure I still have the allergies but I never have any symptoms.  

[Jexa]

I think (on a really basic level) what happens is you are allergic to something and your nasal passages/sinuses swell up to the point where stuff can't drain properly, and it causes a sinus infection (sinusitis).  i have extreme allergies and this happens to me every few months, so i feel everyone's pain, the only thing you can do is take claritin-D/ manage your allergies so that this swelling thing doesn't happen.

i have been diagnosed as allergic to "dust", so its kinda hard to avoid, but really there is no reason to panic or become worried and depressed.  as much as sinus infections suck, and trust me, i'm a baby and they are the worst, there are far worse things in the world to worry about.  just get your doctor to give you some antibiotics.  you'll be good enough in no time ...

[Jexa]

Sorry continuation, but only b/c I totally sympathize ... long story short, try to get on an antibiotic for a minimum on 7 days, 2 pills/day and see if that helps (the regular ones will work, like Amoxicillin).  

it seems like everyone here is on the same page - really f-ing miserable and not getting better and its annoying when your friends/family/etc don't get it.

this antibiotic solution has helped me.  NOTE: if you are a girl, be sure to eat a ton of yogurt or take the pro biotic Acidophilus, which doesn't actually appear to do much aside from put back the good bacteria that the antibiotic kills off.  Also, use backup birth control FYI when you take antibiotics (I hear).  This will prevent other really unpleasant infections from happening while you are fixing you sinus infection. I don't think I need to elaborate on that ...

[PlateletGal]

I can't tolerate allergy shots and so this is what I did:

1) I saw an ENT to make sure that I didn't need sinus surgery. Well guess what ? I did need sinus surgery and so I had surgery in 2002.

2) I experimented with homeopathy and found out that it does work ! It is very cheap... available without a prescription and now I know why Prince Charles and the Queen of England use it. It actually eliminated a couple of my allergies altogether.

3) I found out from a physician who works with Andrew Weil about sublingual therapy. It may or may not be available in the U.S.... but it is safer than allergy injections. Here is the link: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sublingual_immunotherapy

[aba12]

to all my  sinus friends i am so happy that i found you here i have been getting sick with this stupid sinus for almost a year . i feel fear panick even some time i fell like an old car that it needs a lot of parts  to run dizzy every day no happy i call sick to work every day . i can handle every thing the only thing that i hate is fearness from zero . some time i get up from bed i go out side  doctors they dont want help you soon . guys listen to me ...  there is  a midicen that is acoluptus worm it up for 20 miniuts ten bend your head face to it for 10 miniuts till you sweat enough then cover your body sleep for 2 hours , then you will know the difference

[SparkyIreland]

Hi :)

I guess I belong in here as well. As selfish as it sounds I take comfort reading through the posts in the thread, of course I wish we all felt better. Knowing that others are out there looking for answers and have the same problems does make you feel better though.

I have been ill now for roughly 3 years, what has brought this on I have no idea. When you are sick for so long and you include constant fatigue, headaches, and anxiety, it is very easy to slip in depression, especially when you look for answers from medical professionals and they cant provide them, I am talking about are own local Dr’s rather than the ones here. I guess if our own local Dr’s had the answers then we wouldn’t find the need for posting on medical websites :)

My own symptoms include :

Persistent dull headaches
Persistent sinus problems (Inflammation)
Pain behind eyes
Gum inflammation
Heartburn
Post Nasal drip (Thick mucus)
Neck pain
Mild anxiety (I seem to be controlling it)
Pressure in ears
Jaw clicking, popping (Wear night guard)
Fatigue
Lack of motivation, concentration
Heavy slow heartbeat (At times)


I have had the mri’s, ct scans, ecg’s and blood tests that always come back normal, and strangely that leaves me disappointed, when someone tells you that they cant find a problem it should be a celebration, but instead I feel let down lol

I am currently awaiting blood allergy testing results, I look forward to them.

Anyone feeling depressed or down should turn that into determination to finding answers, that’s what I have done. Try to relax also and enjoy your life, I know it sounds so easy

[kasheika2]

Hi I feel terrible as well. I am allergic to everything every kind of pollen, dust, and many trees etc. I was disgnosed last year, take zyrtec daily and nasonex, no help so far. Last night I was breathing through my mouth so much that my tongue swelled up a bit and was painful to get back into my mouth. I cant stand it.. the headches, the sneezing the runny nose, congestion itchy eyes red and swollen. Sometimes it is painful to even sneeze. I cant stand it/ I am sorry to see so many people in this same misery. I feel like I cannot function

[dragonfly2184]

Suicidal thoughts.. I would never act upon these bc of my family but I will say this is the first time I have ever in my life had these thoughts...

I started with serve allergies infections al lthe time so went to my GP because I have so many in a year adviced ENT doctor so got CT scan and I have a deveated septum and severe sinunitus... great so they send me to an allergist and I am tested... I am allergic to so much and the doc and nurses were even like poor child I am only 24 and I am so angry, depressed and so much more... from all of this I take 300mg of allegra, 3 times a day breathing treatments, tylenol, allergy drops (for those who dont know same as shots) and nothing is helping. Everyone thinks I am lazy and I am not I am so tired all the time or my stomach hurt or now my face and hands are tingling and pulsating and this has been happening for over 2 years now its driving me insane I dont know what to do and of course now I have no insurance so all of this cost me so much money but with out even this little help I feel worse even though still feel like ****...

I am going insane seriously.... I dont do anything and everyone is alway bothering me bc they dont understand... come on your only 24 why dont you go out do things your young.. well who the hell has to energy or feel go enough....

I am sorry if I am offending anyone but I am so angery and sad.

If anyone finds anything that works wonders please email me at ***@**** seriously I dont know how much more I can do this.

[alexandra4700]

I was everyday with allergies and asthma.  Everyday i had medicines for my allergies and they did nothing.  I recommend a miracleee!! Natural pills called BEE POLLEN.  You can find them in the pharmacy or natural center. From the first day I did not had allergies nor asthma or take another pill never again.  

[Foxxforce]

I've lived with severe allergies: hives, sinus problems, asthma, dizziness, headaches etc etc etc.  I have food allergies as well as all the others.  You name it.  I had more of an issue when I was around 23 due to stress and I think I had to get prednisone shots more than ever. All due to terrible hives and choking that seemed more like anaphylaxis which then caused infection after infection from having too much steroid.  Ofcourse that was better than throwing up daily, the skin problems, trouble getting up and never really getting sleep from the sleep apnea. Subsequently which caused depression and a full blown break down two years later.  Doctors constantly caulked it up to Chronic fatigue or the like.  I had a full endoscopy by 26 that found swelling and they still couldn't figure out jack.  Pretty freaking frustrating. They wanted a biopsy, at which I said hell no!  It was another careless doctor with no belief of how a young person can be SO sick.  

At that point my trust in doctors went out the door.  I researched and started an elimination diet and figured out I had a bad wheat allergy.  Spent 3 years eating mostly organic soups I made at home with rice only (gluten free products weren't so accessible back then). It took all my will power, but I felt better. My depression was gone, but I still had bad allergies just not as severe and still had to go get steroids every so often for bad flare ups.

Soon after  I got lucky enough to work for a holistic doctor.  I spent about a year cleansing and taking a medical grade food supplement on and off a couple times.  I'm not hokey and I don't mean to push products, but it's the only thing that made life less miserable thereafter.  He had me on Metagenics Ultraclear (rice based) and honestly it tastes terrible and I was too wimpy to take the higher potency.  Basically, cleans out your system and the higher level cleans your liver which most natural docs consider where your allergies and skin issues and stress reside (yes it's all related).

Metagenics supplements are medical grade and can only be prescribed by a doc or bought at a holistic pharmacy.  Also, even through you can buy it online, don't do it without proper supervision.  For example if you take the higher level type cleanser right away you can make yourself REALLY sick and even go to the hospital.  The Supplements have no drugs and are just vitamins and herbs, but don't let that fool you!

Remember to: Just keep hopeful that you can research and find something to help you cope.  Doctors are generally taught to fix the complaint and not the person, or treat the symptom and not the underlying cause, but the compassionate and dedicated ones take the time for both.  Keep seeking information and keep looking for a doctor you trust, period.  A good doctor told me once, "No one knows your body like you, not even a doctor."  

[allergiessuck]

I am so grateful to have found this site and to know I am not the only one with this problem (although I wouldn't wish it on anyone.)  I can relate to everything people here have said, and after severe allergies since age 7 I am now in my 30s and have finally just reached my limits-  unable to function, severe fatigue, and being unable to work or do anything else.  I have been on allergy medications and shots for most of my life, had 2 ENT surgeries, and minimal relief.  I have also moved several times to a new area, and my allergies would be better until 6-12 months later when I became sensitized to the pollens in the area.  Like most everyone else, I am  allergic to pollen, dust, mold, dogs/cats, corn, nuts, and yeast.  I have tried dietary modifications and supplements with little to no improvement, and am currently trying accupuncture treatments, but cannot tell if they are helping very much.  I also have become depressed as I have no quality of life, unable to do anything, feel horrible all the time.  What also makes this so difficult is that no one else understands how I feel and why I sleep so much.  I try not to let people know about it, but those close to me know and still don't understand (think its all in my head, due to depression or laziness, etc.)  I have also recently developed daily asthma attacks, which I rarely had in the past.  I guess my only other option at this point is homeopathy, which I will try.  It is hard to keep going everyday when I don't see any hope of things getting better.  I have already been divorced and lost my job (which I need to pay bills) due to allergies, I just don't know what else to do if the homeopathy doesn't work.  Thanks for being here and letting me express how I feel to people who understand.  Peace and love to you all.

[Lookingforanswers7]

I am so grateful that I found this forum...I have suffered from allergies of some sort (skin, nose, etc) on and off most of my life. However I would say that my allergies have gotten severe for about 8 years now. I have gone to endless doctors, allergists, ENT, specialists, chiro, holistic...trying to find answers.

Things I suffer from:
Issue#1:
Chronic itching of the skin (mostly on my legs) so bad that I had scabs and would blead I literally put a butter knife to my leg one day. I was a teen when this was at its worse and I had flare ups on and off.

Solution: About 3 years ago (at the age of 27) I went to a holistic doctor in hopes that they would help me. They did - I can't believe it but they indicated that the problem was with my liver. They gave a 90 day body cleansing that consisted of drops and then what I think did the trick was chinese herbs that I took for about a month and a half. It completely went away and has not been back since. I am trying to fix the scars now. I am so grateful for this and try to tell everyone about it.

Issue #2:
Severe allergies - causes sinus pressure, itchy watery eyes, conjestion - you name it. It is so bad that I can not function at work at times - I literally have paper attached to my nose. Gone to all kinds of doctors - the only thing is the steroid (Predinsone) that works but can't be on that for long. I have been on nasal sprays, Zyrtecf, allegra, clartin, and recently xyzal - guess what none of them work. I have tried netipot and sinus rinses but nothing yet.

Solution: Still looking for it. My ENT wants me to get nasal surgery just to clean out all the mess that has occured in there - pulups, and nasal disease - also to expand the cavitiy for proper drainage. He did indicate that this would not relieve the issue of allergies that I need to remove the allergen. Well I have 2 dogs that I am trying to get rid of - my house is the cleanest it ever has been...

Growing up my father pushed a lot of homeopathic items on me - and I truly believe in it greatly! I lived on Bee Pollen and Royal Jelly when I was younger and did not have the nasal allergy issues that I have now. I will be trying to go back to a homepathic doctor for this.

Due to my allergies I have also created an issue where I have bumps on the inside part of my eye lids - it feels like sandpaper or staples in my eyes. Again go to an eye doctor and they indicate it is my allergies - steroid drops are the only thing that take it away but the sideeffects are horrible and I can't be on it forever.

I am reseraching when I found this site - I just had my second baby which is about 3 weeks old right now and I am experiencing a break out this morning. Logged in and found this site.

The weirdest thing of all (not sure if anyone else has experienced this) - I had absolutely no allergies or symptoms during either of my pregnancies and I was on no medicine. I know my ENT thinks I'm nuts - but it is so true and all of my friends and family see it too. Today after 3 weeks of giving birth it is back again and guess what the dogs were always here too during pregnancy nothing changed!

This leads me to believe that it has to be hormonal or some kind of chemical imbalance of some sort. obviously my body mayber produced something during pregnancy that fixed the issue. Look I don't know but I am so determined to find the answer. If I find anything I will let everyone know....I can no longer take this. I totally understand when someone indicated that it interferes with there motherly duties and life.

Thank you to all for sharing and I will be watching this discussion and learning how to operate within this forum.