No, allergies don’t directly cause fever. They can trigger symptoms like sneezing, congestion, fatigue, and sore throat, but if you have a fever, it usually indicates an infection. Allergy-related issues like sinus infections can cause fever indirectly. Testing delivers clear results to confirm what’s causing your symptoms so you get the right treatment.
At Manhattan Medical Arts in New York City, we often hear patients ask, “Can allergies cause a fever?”
Dr. Syra Hanif, our board-certified Primary Care Physician, has helped thousands of NYC patients manage allergy symptoms—and avoid confusion with infections that need different treatments.
In this guide, we’ll answer every question about allergies, fever, and related symptoms—using real medical experience, trusted U.S. health sources, and NYC-specific advice.
Can Allergies Cause a Fever?
No—allergies themselves don’t cause a fever.
While they can make you feel tired, achy, or uncomfortable, your body temperature stays normal.
Fever is a classic sign of infection. When bacteria or viruses invade, your immune system releases pyrogens—chemicals that raise your body temperature to fight off germs.
Allergies trigger a different immune response, releasing histamines that cause sneezing, congestion, and itchy eyes, but no fever.
Can You Get a Fever From Allergies Indirectly?
Yes—but not directly from the allergic reaction.
Dr. Syra Hanif explains:
“We see many NYC patients whose untreated allergies lead to chronic congestion, sinus infections, or ear infections—which can cause fever.”
When allergies cause your sinuses to stay blocked and inflamed, bacteria can multiply, leading to sinusitis—an infection that often causes:
- Low-grade fever
- Facial pressure
- Thick yellow/green nasal discharge
Testing delivers clear results—confirming whether symptoms are allergy-driven or an infection needing antibiotics.
Low-Grade Fever with Allergies: What’s the Truth?
You might feel feverish—fatigue, mild aches, warm skin—but without an actual temperature rise.
✅ True fever (≥100.4°F) suggests infection.
✅ Use a thermometer to check.
✅ If your symptoms worsen or include persistent fever, see a doctor.
Data Point: Allergies affect over 60 million Americans yearly. (CDC)
Can Allergies Cause Chills or Make You Feel Achy and Feverish?
✅ Allergies can cause immune activation—leading to fatigue, headache, malaise.
✅ No real fever or chills.
These symptoms can be confusing.
Dr. Hanif’s experience:
“Many patients say they feel ‘sick’ during peak NYC allergy seasons. Testing helps us rule out infections and customize treatment.”
Can Sinus Allergies Cause Fever?
✅ Allergies themselves don’t—but sinus infections do.
Blocked sinuses can trap bacteria → infection → fever.
Signs of sinus infection:
- Low-grade fever
- Facial pain
- Thick nasal discharge
- Worsening after 7–10 days
Treatment: Antibiotics (for bacterial sinusitis), nasal corticosteroids.
Can Allergies Cause Sore Throat?
✅ Yes—but not from infection.
✅ Caused by postnasal drip irritating the throat.
✅ Usually no fever unless infection develops.
NYC Tip: Urban allergens like cockroach particles and mold in old buildings can trigger intense postnasal drip.
Can Allergies Make You Cough?
✅ Yes.
✅ Postnasal drip can tickle your throat.
✅ Asthma triggered by allergies can cause wheezing and chronic cough.
Dr. Hanif’s experience:
“We help many NYC patients manage allergy-induced cough with safe, FDA-approved inhalers and nasal sprays.”
How Long Does Allergy Fever Last?
✅ Trick question—allergies don’t cause fever.
✅ If you have fever, suspect infection.
Common infection durations:
- Viral sinusitis: 5–7 days
- Bacterial sinusitis: may need antibiotics if >10 days
Allergy Testing and Getting Results
At Manhattan Medical Arts, we offer comprehensive testing for NYC patients:
✅ Skin prick tests
✅ Blood IgE testing
✅ Environmental allergen panels
Result: A clear, personalized treatment plan.
Allergy Treatment Options
✅ Short-term relief:
- FDA-approved antihistamines (cetirizine, loratadine)
- Nasal corticosteroid sprays
- Saline irrigation
✅ Long-term management:
- Immunotherapy (allergy shots)
- Avoidance strategies
- Prescription meds
FDA Note: All treatments recommended are FDA-approved for safety and efficacy.
Prevention Tips for NYC Patients
✅ Use HEPA filters in apartments.
✅ Control indoor humidity with dehumidifiers.
✅ Clean with vacuums featuring HEPA filters.
✅ Manage cockroach allergens in older buildings.
✅ Wear masks outdoors on high pollen days.
✅ Close windows during peak pollen times.
When to See a Doctor
✅ Persistent fever (>3 days)
✅ Severe facial pain
✅ Shortness of breath or wheezing
✅ Difficulty swallowing
✅ Symptoms unresponsive to OTC meds
🚨 Call 911 for:
- Trouble breathing
- Swelling of face or throat
- Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis)
✅ Q: Can allergies cause fever?
A: No. Fever suggests infection.
✅ Q: Can allergies make you feel feverish?
A: Yes, via fatigue, aches, but no real temperature rise.
✅ Q: Can allergies cause chills?
A: Not directly, but fatigue and immune response can feel similar.
✅ Q: Can sinus allergies cause fever?
A: Only if they lead to bacterial infection.
✅ Q: How long does allergy fever last?
A: Allergies don’t cause fever. Infections last 5–10 days.
✅ Q: Can allergies cause sore throat?
A: Yes, from postnasal drip.
✅ Q: Can allergies make you cough?
A: Yes, especially with postnasal drip or asthma.
✅ Q: How do you test for allergies?
A: Skin tests, blood IgE tests at our NYC clinic.
✅ Q: What are treatment options?
A: FDA-approved meds, immunotherapy, avoidance strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions About Can Allergies Cause Fever
Can allergies cause a low-grade fever?
Allergies don't cause fever directly, but sinus infections or ear infections caused by allergy complications might result in a low-grade fever. These infections often cause a fever as your immune system responds.
Can allergies make you feel achy and feverish?
Yes, allergies can cause body aches and general fatigue, which might feel similar to fever. But your actual body temperature stays normal.
How long does allergy fever last?
Since allergies don’t cause fever, any fever likely comes from a secondary infection. These usually resolve in 7–10 days with treatment. If the infection continues to cause a fever after this point, contact your provider.
What are 5 severe symptoms of allergies?
Difficulty breathing Anaphylaxis (in food or insect sting allergies) Chronic sinus infections Otitis media Severe skin rashes or hives
References
✅ CDC – Allergies FastStats
✅ Mayo Clinic – Hay Fever
✅ NIH – Allergic Rhinitis
✅ FDA – Allergy Medications
✅ JAMA
Disclaimer
This blog is for informational & educational purposes only, and does not intend to substitute any professional medical advice or consultation. For any health related concerns, please consult with your physician, or call 911.
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About The Author
Dr. Syra Hanif M.D.Board Certified Primary Care Physician
Dr. Syra Hanif is a board-certified Primary Care Physician (PCP) dedicated to providing compassionate, patient-centered healthcare.
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