Allergies are supremely annoying and difficult to deal with and they can significantly impact a person’s way of life. Today, so many people suffer from allergies such as seasonal allergies, allergies to pets, dust, or to any number of other agents. Seasonal allergies, otherwise known as allergic rhinitis, are perhaps the most unbearable of the lot and the ones that people most often medicate. Allergies happen in the nose, where the respiratory system begins. It is here that the respiratory tract is designed to cleanse the air of dirt, dust, and bacteria before it goes into the lungs. In some people, approximately 10% to 15% of the population, the immune system is triggered by certain substances in the air, such as pollen, dust, and molds. The mast cells, which are responsible for histamine storage, kick into overdrive to release histamine and other immune system chemicals in order to attack the foreign substance and get rid of it.
So now that we’ve provided a brief explanation of what allergies are, let's take a look at how they can be treated. After all, no one wants to live with the symptoms of allergies, which often include a runny nose, itchy and watery eyes, sneezing, and congestion. Allergies are generally treated by medications called antihistamines, a drug that will block the effects of histamines in the body, thereby reducing the allergy symptoms. These medications can be taken before or after an allergic reaction begins, which makes them highly effective at providing relief. However, in any circumstance and with any type of medication, it is crucial that a diver begin taking the medication in a safe environment to determine whether or not there are side effects. Every person is different and not everyone will suffer from side effects of the medication.
The side effects of a medication can pose additional risks for the diver and antihistamines are no exception to this. The primary concern is the drowsiness it can cause. This is a dangerous thing for divers who must be alert the whole time they are underwater, checking their gauges and keeping an eye on their buddy and their environment. A diver simply can't risk feeling drowsy or they risk running out of air and misjudging the amount of time they have been underwater. If nitrogen narcosis occurs, the drowsiness can get even worse, putting the diver in even more danger.
Another side effect of antihistamines can be a dry mouth. This dryness will be compounded by the breathing of dry gas through the regulator. This is not so much of a life threatening side effect, but it can be quite bothersome. Drinking plenty of fluids and sucking on hard candies before and between dives can greatly help to hydrate the body and keeps the saliva flowing. If nasal dryness is a problem, then saline sprays are a good option.
Some people need more help than over-the-counter medications provide to them and in these cases a doctor may prescribe steroids that may be inhaled. These will not have systematic effects like the oral antihistamines, but they need to be used up to four times per day. When using these sprays, they should be taken a half an hour before you dive. An over-the-counter nasal spray with cromolyn sodium is another option. This is not an antihistamine, but instead works to prevent the mast cells from releasing antihistamines and must be taken before exposure to the allergen. There are also non-sedating antihistamine medications, including Allegra, Claritin, and Zyrtec. These appear to be safe options for divers as well.
Diving with allergies is no fun, but diving with the risk of side effects from antihistamine medications is unwise. You need to be sure that you know how the drugs will affect your body. If you have been taking the same medication for years, then you will know, but if not, then you should determine its effect before you dive. If you are at all unsure, then consult with your doctor or, better yet, a dive doctor to be sure. When you know and are comfortable that you can dive safely and free of additional risks; then you can truly enjoy the sport you love and take the plunge into the big blue.