Winders says that one of the most common misconceptions about allergies is that it’s a minor condition—that you can just take medication and carry on. “But in fact, some quality of life studies have shown that patients with allergies actually have a lower quality of life than those with more chronic conditions like asthma.” The reason? If you can’t breathe, are congested, have a runny nose, you feel miserable and you won’t sleep well. Not only that, but you’re more susceptible to viral conditions.

An Ohio State University study has also revealed that people who suffer from allergies can miss up to 32 hours of work in a week.  “That general feeling of misery—they’re unable to go to work and be as productive as what they would normally be.”

And while some allergy medications may relieve the symptoms, they often have major side effects such as drowsiness, and this can also reduce a person’s productivity.