Will Allergies Cause a Fever?

Fever

Allergies typically do not cause fever. Fever is generally a symptom of the body’s immune response to infection, particularly bacterial or viral infections. When the body detects the presence of pathogens, such as bacteria or viruses, it releases chemicals called pyrogens, which signal the hypothalamus in the brain to raise the body’s temperature as a protective response to help fight off the infection.

Allergic reactions, on the other hand, occur when the immune system overreacts to harmless substances such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or certain foods. This immune response involves the release of histamine and other chemicals, which can cause symptoms such as sneezing, itching, runny nose, watery eyes, and skin rashes like hives or eczema.

While allergic reactions can sometimes cause mild symptoms that mimic those of a cold or flu, such as nasal congestion or a sore throat, they typically do not cause fever. However, in rare cases, severe allergic reactions known as anaphylaxis can occur, which can lead to symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the throat, a rapid drop in blood pressure, and loss of consciousness. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency and requires immediate treatment with epinephrine (adrenaline) and emergency medical care. Fever is not a typical symptom of anaphylaxis, but the severe systemic response can lead to a feeling of warmth or flushing of the skin.

In summary, while allergies can cause a variety of symptoms, including nasal congestion, sneezing, itching, and skin rashes, they typically do not cause fever. If you experience symptoms such as fever along with allergy-like symptoms, it may indicate an underlying infection rather than a pure allergic reaction, and you should consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment.

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