Do I Have Seasonal Allergies?

When the spring season hits, do you start having allergic reactions? While most people are celebrating the warmer weather, you might be dreading the spread of pollen due to its impact on your health. Could you be suffering from seasonal allergies? Keep reading a bit more to learn what seasonal allergies are and what you can do if you think you are experiencing them.

What causes seasonal allergies?

Seasonal allergies are caused when everything begins blossoming. Trees, grass, and pollen are typically the culprits responsible for causing seasonal allergies in the spring. If your symptoms of seasonal allergies only spring up in the fall, ragweed might be another trigger.

What are the symptoms of seasonal allergies?

Seasonal allergies have a variety of symptoms. The most common symptoms of seasonal allergies are sneezing, a runny nose, and congestion. Other symptoms associated with seasonal allergies can include itchy and watery eyes, hives, or scratchy throat or ears. If you experience these symptoms, you might have seasonal allergies.

What can I do to reduce the symptoms associated with seasonal allergies?

Seasonal allergies cannot be cured. However, there are a few different ways to try and ease the discomfort you feel with seasonal allergies.  The first is to try to limit your time outdoors. It isn’t practical to never go outside, but when you do it’s important to take an antihistamine about 30 minutes before. If you exercise outdoors, go in the late afternoon or early evening when pollen counts are lower. You can also check your daily air quality forecast to see when the pollution levels are expected to be at their lowest.  When you come back from being outside, it is also a good idea to change clothes. This will help limit your pollen exposure once you’re back indoors.

Can medication help with seasonal allergies?

There are some over the counter medications that can help curb the symptoms associated with seasonal allergies. An antihistamine can help prevent watery eyes, runny nose, and sneezing. Decongestants will open up your airways, reduce nasal swelling, and help relieve sinus pressure. You can also get a saline spray to clean out the mucus in your nose.

Need help combatting seasonal allergies? Call Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Medical Group!

If you are looking to combat seasonal allergies, Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Medical Group can help. Since 1978, we’ve worked to help patients deal with all types of allergies. From minor reactions like a drippy nose to life-threatening conditions like anaphylaxis, the doctors at Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Medical Group work to diagnose the cause and develop a customized treatment plan tailored to the nature of your allergies. If you are suffering from seasonal allergies or any other type of allergies, call our office today at 805-658-9500. With four conveniently located offices, you’re not far away from allergy relief!