We all know how tough it can be to carry about our business while trying to combat allergy symptoms. But a recent study shows that sufferers of allergies may have impaired inhibitions, on par with that of a drunk person.
A study conducted in the Netherlands found that drivers with seasonal allergies compare to drivers who operate their vehicles with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.03. It was organized at the peak of tree and grass pollen season, with some drivers being given antihistamine or nasal spray while others were not given these treatments. Following the administration of these medications for the test group, each participant then took a 60 minute driving test.
The researchers found that drivers who had not been given and anti-allergy medication were drowsy, and suffered from itchy, watery, irritated eyes, and therefore drove less safely than those who received medication. Also, participants were given a memory test, which yielded the same results with un-medicated participants remembering less than those who had taken antihistamine medicine.
Most participants and researchers were mildly surprised at the relation to measurable BAC levels, but were not surprised at the impact allergies can have on daily activities.
"Driving is about the way you feel," said seasonal allergy sufferer, Keith Robinson, in a statement to KVUE TV, an ABC affiliate in Austin, TX. "If the medication is particularly effective, people could have more clarity. People would be sneezing less, for instance, things that distract from driving."
While allergy relief is sometimes hard to achieve, there are many medications and helpful allergy control products that you can employ to reduce the impact that seasonal allergens have on your day-to-day life. If you are interested in materials that can help you through allergy season, contact Allergy Be Gone today.
