
Are Allergies Affecting your Mental Health?
The Problem
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Five Smart Tips
This webpage provides general information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice; please consult a healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

Allergies and Your Mental Health
Living in Austin has its perks — But if you’re dealing with Allergies, you know the suffering is real.
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Allergies may worsen symptoms of Anxiety, Depression, Inattention and Fatigue.
What’s even more surprising?
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Many common allergy treatments come with hidden mental health effects.
Discover Five Smart Tips for Your Mental Well-being.

1. Mind Your Nasal Steroids
Nasal sprays like Nasonex or Flonase are lifesavers during allergy season, but they need to be used correctly. Inhaling too forcefully or tilting your head back may cause the spray to drip down your throat where it can be absorbed into your digestive in higher doses.
Why It Matters for Mental Health:
Steroids can have powerful Mental Health Side-effects including Anxiety and Mood Instability.
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Pro-Tip:
Don't Forcefully Inhale - Instead "Coat" Each Nostril with one Spray and Hold your Nose Closed for 15 seconds before Blowing Out into a Kleenex.
2. Optimize Your Antihistamine Timing
Antihistamines like Claritin or Allegra are marketed as "Non-drowsy"- but did you know taking them at night may help to facilitate deeper and more restorative sleep?
Why It Matters for Mental Health:
Poor sleep is one of the fastest ways to worsen anxiety or depression. By improving your sleep during allergy season, you can break the cycle of fatigue and emotional burnout.
Pro Tip:
Ask your Doctor about shifting the timing of medication to Bedtime in order reduce Daytime allergy symptoms and improve your Sleep.
Note: Avoid decongestant based versions such as "Claritin-D"

3. "Be Aware of Singulair"(Montelukast)

Why It Matters for Mental Health:
Montelukast works on an immune pathway but has been linked to mood changes, including depression and anxiety, in some people. These mood changes can be subtle at first but may escalate over time.
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Pro Tip:
Monitor your mood when starting or increasing Montelukast, and consult your doctor immediately if you notice significant changes. Alternatives may be available.
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4. Stay Ahead of Cedar Fever
Austin’s cedar pollen levels are legendary for triggering severe allergy symptoms. Waiting until you’re already struggling to treat allergies can lead to a cascade of physical and emotional exhaustion.
Why It Matters for Mental Health:
When allergies leave you physically drained, your mental health often takes a hit as well. Proactive treatment can help you avoid this spiral.
Pro Tip:
Try to Ensure You Start Your Allergy Medications at Least Two Weeks prior to Cedar Season.
5. Watch for Medication Interactions
Remember, Allergy Medications can have Complex Interactions - these may worsen Depression, Anxiety, and Impair Attention and Memory.
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Westlake Psychiatry specializes in sophisticated and detailed analysis of all of your medications.
We utilize advanced tools, such as:
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Genetic Analysis​​​
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Dietary Assessment​​​
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Hormonal Evaluation
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Your Brain is Infinitely Complex - There is no Replacement for Expert Care.​
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Reach Out - Limited Appointments Now Available
