The warmer days are finally here! As we dust off our spring clothes and tackle our spring-cleaning projects, nature is starting to bloom as well. While many of us welcome the blooming flowers and trees, those with seasonal allergies may not.

Seasonal allergies can cause minor symptoms, or they can be severe enough to cause widespread discomfort all over your body.

If you experience seasonal allergies in the spring, our team at AFC Urgent Care Hixson is here to help you find relief.

Why Does Pollen Cause a Reaction?

In the springtime, one of the most common allergens is pollen! Trees, flowers and weeds all produce it as they bloom for the season. While pollen is not inherently dangerous, some people’s immune systems mistakenly interpret it as a dangerous intruder. Similar to when you have an infection, your immune system will work hard to rid your body of the pollen intruder.

In response to the pollen, your body produces histamine. Histamine helps hurry the process along and causes the classic allergy symptoms to appear, like a runny nose or watery eyes. Minor seasonal allergies will have minor symptoms, but major allergies can lead to dangerous complications.

Common Seasonal Allergy Signs

• Runny nose
• Itchy, watery or red eyes
• Sneezing
• Headache

Can I Make My Allergies Go Away?

Unfortunately, there is not a cure for seasonal allergies. You might grow out of them or experience fewer symptoms as you get older, but many people just learn how to manage their symptoms. If you know what triggers your allergies, you can avoid the situations entirely or take your medication before exposing yourself to the allergen.

If you need help figuring out how to best manage your symptoms, we can help! We can discuss your allergy symptoms and help you figure out your specific triggers. From there, we can chat about different OTC allergy medication options to help minimize your symptoms during a flare-up. Remember, a serious allergic reaction is different from seasonal allergies, so seek emergency medical attention right away for a severe reaction.

Red Flags for an Allergic Reaction

• Rash or hives
• Swelling of tongue, lips or throat
• Trouble breathing
• Dizziness or fainting

Seasonal allergies can be frustrating! Let us help you feel better at AFC Urgent Care Hixson.