Spring is here, flowers are blooming, and Mother Nature is waking up after a long rest. Her beauty isn’t the only thing in bloom though. Developing right alongside those blossoms that are so tempting to touch and inhale is allergic rhinitis. Many people experience different degrees of this common condition, also known as hay fever or springtime allergies.
Weathering Springtime Allergies
If you struggle with springtime allergies, you are likely experiencing overreactive immune responses to allergens like pollen. Your symptoms may include:
- Sneezing
- Itchy eyes
- Congestion
- Coughing
- Postnasal drip
- Hives
- Sinus headaches
- Sore throat
It’s easy to assume these frustrating symptoms are indicative of a cold or other type of respiratory condition, but there is a good chance that allergies have taken over. Combine the eczema flare-ups that also occur this time of year and springtime is a tough season to weather. Always reach out to me to get relief and clarity about what’s happening to your systems.
Your Unique Allergy Triggers
Not all pollen is the same. Some patients struggle with exposure to certain outdoor allergens and others aren’t affected at all. Some people have indoor but not outdoor allergies. Springtime can definitely complicate your health. When you’re confused by your allergy triggers, I can help you uncover your personal triggers.
Some effective possibilities:
- App tracking. Certain apps are designed to identify high pollen count as well as the types of pollen prevalent in your area. Limiting outside exposure on days like this may be helpful for some and keep pesky allergy triggers at bay.
- Showering. If you can’t help but spend extensive time outside or find yourself especially uncomfortable after leaving the outdoors, showering is sometimes a recommended approach to rinse allergens from the hair and skin.
- Air purifiers. Outdoor allergens find their way into the home whether you like it or not, on people, on shoes, and coming through doors and windows and vents. An air purifier draws in indoor air, filters it, and releases purified air into the room. Indoor air quality goes up and springtime allergy symptoms ease.
Staying Healthy with Springtime Allergies
Allergies can make you feel miserable and cause a host of symptoms and complications. Allergy testing is often effective in identifying exactly what’s causing your discomfort, but even without this formal testing it is possible to develop a good plan to treat allergic rhinitis symptoms.
There are many possibilities to address hay fever, from allergy shots to medication like antihistamines, antileukotrienes, and steroid nasal sprays. Enjoy a happy, healthy, and sneeze-free spring. Schedule an appointment with me, Dr. Maria Swetech, for support and information.
Nothing in this blog is official medical advice. See your doctor for customized care.
