Most of us look forward to the summer, when we can spend more time outdoors and enjoy the beauty of flowers and trees in full bloom. However, the smell of freshly mown grass strikes dread rather than joy in the hearts of people who suffer from hay fever.
A pollen attack can leave sufferers sneezing, rubbing their eyes and mopping up a runny nose for hours afterwards. This can be exhausting, and for men insult may be added to injury when they have trouble performing in the bedroom. Here’s a look at why this might be the case and what can be done to reduce the risk.
What is Allergic Rhinitis?
Allergic rhinitis (AR) is an umbrella term that covers hay fever (pollen allergy) and allergies to other irritants such as dust mites, mould spores, and pet dander. Some people are affected more severely than others, and typical symptoms include sneezing, a running nose, itchy eyes, nose, and throat, watery eyes, and fatigue.
For some people, AR can be a debilitating condition, particularly during spring and early summer when pollen counts are at the highest levels. It can also flare up in autumn when trees release pollen.
Other triggers include being in the same room as a cat or dog. It’s often mistakenly thought that animal fur triggers allergic reactions, but it’s actually the spores on the animal’s skin that are released into the air that are responsible. Dusty environments with lots of paper or fabrics can also aggravate AR.
In severe cases, AR sufferers may have difficulty sleeping, be at risk of dehydration, suffer from skin rashes, and have to severely limit their outdoor activities when pollen counts are medium or high. This can affect mood, energy levels, and may impact quality of life.
Scientists believe that AR is caused by an overactive immune system, which detects the irritants as a health threat and tries to expel them from the body and neutralise them through the release of inflammatory chemicals such as histamines.
What is the link between allergies and ED?
The link between hay fever and erectile dysfunction (ED) may not be immediately obvious, but some scientific research studies offer evidence to support a connection between allergies and the risk of developing ED.
Inflammation
One of reasons this may be the case is that allergies trigger an inflammatory process in the body, which may constrict the blood vessels. This reduces the amount of blood that can flow to the penis, and also constricts the production of nitric oxide. This is the chemical that helps the nerves in the blood vessels relax and allow an erection to happen.
Medications
Furthermore, many of the common medications for allergies, such as antihistamines, can interfere with the body’s ability to produce nitric oxide, making it more difficult to get and keep an erection. They may also cause drowsiness and reduce the ability to respond to sexual stimuli.
Fatigue and poor sleep
Allergies can interfere with sleep due to congestion, sneezing, and itchiness. This can affect hormonal balance and energy levels, making the individual feel less in the mood for sexual activity. Furthermore, swollen or watery eyes, a runny nose, and a blunted sense of smell can make them feel less attractive or sensual, and less responsive to a partner.
How can allergy sufferers reduce the risk of ED?
Avoiding triggers
Understanding what triggers your allergies will help you to minimise your exposure. If it’s pollen, wash your face and clothes after being outdoors, and keep doors and windows closed on breezy days with a high pollen count. Consult your doctor or pharmacist about suitable medications.
Keep pets away from your bedroom, and maintain a regular cleaning routine to reduce dust levels. Wash your bedding, towels, and clothes frequently, and shower and wash your hair every day.
Diet and lifestyle changes
Eating a well balanced diet, avoiding smoking, and taking regular exercise can help your body to deal with the inflammatory stresses more effectively, and will also help you to sleep better.
If ED persists despite these changes, it’s advisable to discuss this with your doctor to rule out underlying health conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes. They may recommend taking an oral ED medication such as sildenafil, the trade name for Viagra.
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