by Silkbutterfli

Created on: June 12, 2009   Last Updated: June 15, 2009

As a chronic sufferer of seasonal allergies, I can tell you that my mood swings are worse than if I was pregnant or pms'ing. In the past three weeks, I have noticed, since our weather has been interesting, to say the least, that my allergies have been in full swing, so have my moods and energy level.

To be honest, I have had no energy. I am tired all the time, even after getting 8-10 hours sleep. I wake up feeling like I haven't slept at all. Getting through the day is getting harder the longer my allergies go on. Am I taking anything to help combat the dreaded allergy problems? Yes, like millions of other American's across the country, I am taking any over the counter medication that is recommended to me. I have tried all the name brand ones that I can afford. Are they helping? Yes and no. They are definitely not helping my wallet. They do help relieve some of the symptoms of my allergies.

Because I have suffered from seasonal allergies for over 20 years, I know what does and doesn't work. Unfortunately, not a lot does anymore. My moods go from upbeat to worn out. I suffer from headaches that make me crankier than a normal headache does. I want to crawl into a bed, in a dark room and stay there until I feel better. I can't do that, but it's a pleasant dream. I try my best not to let my suffering effect those around me. When the noises in the room get too loud, I can't scream at people to "just shut up". It isn't polite and I actually like the people I work with.

I have noticed that I don't want to go out much. I want to stay in where it's dark and quiet when my allergies are at their worst. I go out a little more when they aren't so bad, such as to the grocery store. Being out in the open air, I know will bring out my allergies if I am out too long, but I know that fresh air will help the headache that accompanies the allergies. It is like a catch 22 situation.

The only real thing that can be accomplished when you have allergies is to figure out what works best for you. I have worked things out with friends, when invited to join them for outings or to come visit, that if I am having a good day, I will join them, with allergies pills and Ibuprofen in hand. If I start to feeling bad, I will leave, with no hurt feelings. If I am having a bad day, I bow out gracefully and tell them that if I find myself feeling better, I will join them. They have been very good about the whole thing. I don't want to ruin anyone's plans because I am having an allergy problem, it's not fair to them or to me.

This year, I have been experiencing more headaches with my allergies, so I haven't gone out much. A dark room and quiet seem to help. I know my limitations and that my moods are not that great when I am not feeling well. While everyone experiences some moodiness for one reason or another, having allergies add to those moods is not always pleasant. Once again, figure out what works best for you and those around you. Get plenty of rest, take medications that work for you, and be kind to those around you. It's not their fault you are suffering from allergies.

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