From the Research
Yes, allergies can cause a low-grade temperature, though this is not as common as other allergy symptoms. When your body encounters an allergen, it releases chemicals like histamines that trigger an immune response. This inflammatory response can sometimes elevate your body temperature slightly, typically resulting in a low-grade fever (usually below 100.4°F or 38°C). This mild temperature increase is your body's way of fighting what it perceives as a threat. However, if you develop a higher fever (above 101°F or 38.3°C), this likely indicates something other than allergies, such as an infection. Other typical allergy symptoms include:
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
- Itchy eyes
- Congestion For managing allergy-related low-grade fevers, over-the-counter antihistamines like cetirizine (Zyrtec), loratadine (Claritin), or fexofenadine (Allegra) can help reduce the immune response, as supported by a recent study on the evidence-based use of antihistamines for treatment of allergic conditions 1. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can also help lower the temperature and reduce inflammation. If your fever persists or worsens, it's essential to consult a healthcare provider to rule out other conditions. Temperature changes can also impact allergic symptoms, with some studies suggesting that high temperatures can worsen existing allergic symptoms 2, while others indicate that low temperatures may also play a role in certain allergic conditions 3. However, the relationship between temperature and allergies is complex, and more research is needed to fully understand this interaction. In the context of thermoregulatory disorders, it's crucial to recognize that extreme temperatures can have severe health consequences, including hypothermia and hyperthermia 4. Additionally, seasonal variations in temperature may influence the incidence of certain allergic conditions, such as epistaxis 5. Overall, while allergies can cause a low-grade temperature, it's vital to consider the broader context of allergic symptoms and temperature-related health effects to provide appropriate management and care.