A new article in the medical journal Allergy is raising concerns about the risk of driving with seasonal allergies, as experts say it may put everyone on the road in serious danger.
The study found that people suffering from untreated seasonal symptoms had a significantly impaired ability to drive, comparable to that of a driver with a blood alcohol content of .05 percent. While the national legal limit is .08 percent, a BAC of .05 percent can get you a charge of driving while ability impaired in some states.
Drivers whose allergy symptoms had been treated with antihistamine medications performed far better on the road test, leading the study's authors to urge allergy sufferers to always take their medication.
The study was conducted in the Netherlands, using 19 patients with a documented history of allergic rhinitis, also known as seasonal allergies.
If you suffer from seasonal allergies, there are steps you can take to reduce your symptoms and make you a safer driver. Consider seeing an allergist to discuss your various over-the-counter and prescription antihistamine options. He or she can also administer an allergy test, so that you know which specific triggers cause you to react. You can then stay indoors when certain pollen counts are particularly high, and avoid foods that might exacerbate your symptoms.
Experts advise seasonal allergy sufferers to shower every night before bed, to rinse pollen from their hair and skin. You should also consider investing in an allergen air purifier, to minimize the presence of pollen in your home. To see more allergy solutions, visit the Allergy Be Gone website today! We can help you get your symptoms under control.
