You feel a tickle in your nose, your eyes begin to water, and then suddenly, “AAAHHHCHOO!” As spring approaches, your body may react to new allergens in your environment. An allergen is typically a harmless substance, yet sometimes allergens such as pollen, mold, or pet dander trigger your immune system to respond with an allergic reaction. During winter months, we have less interaction with allergens. But during spring and summer months, pollen from trees, grasses, and plants are released into the air as seasonal flora begins to flourish. You may notice your body is responding to allergens. Unfortunately, it may respond when your regular doctor is closed. M.D. Express Urgent Care is available to treat your allergy symptoms when your doctor is not!
Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies
Sometimes, our immune systems overreact to outdoor allergens. Roughly 7.8% of adults in the United States suffer from allergic rhinitis, or hay fever. Allergic rhinitis is a diagnosis of symptoms that affect the sinuses, typically symptoms occurring after breathing in an allergen. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include: sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, post nasal drainage, and watery eyes. Additionally, you may experience itchy nose, throat, eyes or ear canals. Less common symptoms might include coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath or a headache.
Treatment of Seasonal Allergies
The best way to treat seasonal allergies is to try to avoid contact with allergens. Before you go outside, check the National Allergy Map for a current forecast of the pollen count in your locale. Limit your time outdoors if the pollen count is particularly high. Stay comfortable inside your home during allergy season by keeping doors and windows shut. Keep your hands, face, and hair clean. Washing out allergens will prevent allergic reactions from occurring while indoors.
If you cannot avoid allergens, consult your physician for a medication recommendation. There are several over-the-counter medications available for seasonal allergies. Your physician may also provide prescription medication or nasal spray.
If you’re suffering from the symptoms of seasonal allergies outside of regular business hours, or your doctor is just too busy to see you, walk-in to any of M.D. Express Urgent Care’s 6 convenient locations. A doctor is always available to treat your allergy symptoms!
