Seasonal allergies and type 1 diabetes: Your questions answered

With summertime pollen counts seeming to tick higher with every breeze, managing seasonal allergies and type 1 diabetes (T1D) is likely top of mind. On an average day, managing T1D can involve (literal and figurative) highs and lows — but the sneezing, itchy eyes and painful sinuses caused by allergies can derail your best-laid plans. We get it!

Fortunately, it's possible to keep your allergies from becoming especially irritating. Here are some of the most common questions (and answers) surrounding seasonal allergies and type 1 diabetes.

What are seasonal allergies, exactly?

Seasonal allergies occur when outdoor allergens, like pollen from trees, grasses and weeds, trigger the immune system to overreact. That overreaction can range from mild to severe. Common symptoms include itchy eyes, sneezing, a stuffy nose, an itchy throat, ear congestion and postnasal drainage. Less common symptoms include headaches, a sore throat and exhaustion.

Does diabetes make my seasonal allergies worse?

Allergies on their own may not affect blood sugar levels (unless the discomfort of them causes a stress response, which may raise blood sugars), but the medications you use to treat seasonal allergies can. It's important to keep this in mind year-round but especially during the spring and summer months. Take the time to read medication labels for warnings about diabetes and blood sugar, and ask your doctor or pharmacist about potential conflicts if you're unsure.

Can allergy medication affect my blood sugars?

If your allergy symptoms become unbearable, you may reach for an allergy medication, but not all are created equal! Here's a breakdown of the common medications you'll find in the allergy aisle and the effects they can have:

• Decongestants. These are commonly found in allergy medications because they help relieve congestion. It's important to note that medications containing decongestants may raise blood sugar, blood pressure and heart rate.
• Antihistamines. While antihistamines generally do not cause blood sugar issues as they block the effects of histamines, they can cause drowsiness. This makes staying on top of your insulin rates crucial — if you fall asleep at random, you could run the risk of hypoglycemia.
• Steroids. These compounds cause blood sugars to rise. They are most often prescribed by clinicians but are also available over the counter. As someone with T1D, you should use them carefully. If you're uneasy or unsure about taking allergy medication, consult with your medical team first.

How can I manage both seasonal allergies and type 1 diabetes?

If you're taking a medication that causes higher blood sugars, it is important to stay on top of your numbers. Frequent finger sticks or a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) can provide the data you need to keep numbers in range while treating your seasonal allergies. Take your insulin as prescribed and do not skip doses, even if you're feeling stuffed up and lethargic from allergies.

It's also a good idea to keep tabs on the local allergen report! Local media outlets often provide this information, and you can use weather apps to see the latest pollen index. If being outside is tough for you at peak pollen times, you can change some of your habits and routines to make life easier. For instance, opt to exercise indoors or wear a mask when you're outside. Showering after being outside can also help clear the pollen from your body. Take action to mitigate the sneezes and sniffles caused by allergies so you can fully focus on managing your T1D.

Interested in updating your approaches to daily diabetes management? Explore the Edgepark website to discover CGMs, diabetes testing supplies and insulin delivery devices.