Help for Allergy Sufferers! Spring 2022 is here, and experts say this promises to be another tough season for the estimated 35 million Americans who suffer from allergies.
Symptoms of seasonal allergies include:
- Watery eyes or dark circles under the eyes
- Itchy eyes, nose, and throat
- Sneezing
- Stuffy or runny nose
- Sore throat, or itching of the throat or ears
- Waking up at night or having trouble sleeping
- Feeling tired all day
Here are a few precautions allergy sufferers can take to nip symptoms in the bud (in addition to using prescription or over-the-counter medications):
- Limit outdoor activities to the evening or when pollen counts are lower.
- Leave windows closed at home or in the car to keep out pollen.
- Install and use your air conditioner early to filter outside air that comes into your home.
- Wash your hair after spending time outdoors.
- Avoid mowing lawns or raking leaves, which stir up pollen and mold.
- Do not hang sheets or clothes outside to dry.
These preventative measures are a few simple ways allergy sufferers can take action to relieve their symptoms, which may ultimately help to make the outdoor experience more enjoyable during allergy season.
What are seasonal allergies?
Seasonal allergies, also called “hay fever,” are a group of conditions that can cause sneezing, a stuffy nose, or a runny nose. Symptoms usually only occur at certain times of the year.
Most seasonal allergies are caused by:
- Pollens from trees, grasses, or weeds
- Mold spores, which grow when the weather is humid, wet, or damp
Usually, people breathe in these substances without a problem. When a person has a seasonal allergy, their immune system acts as if the substance is harmful to the body, and this causes symptoms.
Many people first get seasonal allergies when they are children or young adults. Seasonal allergies are usually life-long, but symptoms can get better or worse over time. Seasonal allergies sometimes run in families.
Some people have symptoms like seasonal allergies, but their symptoms last all year. Year-round symptoms are usually caused by:
- Insects, such as dust mites and cockroaches
- Animals, such as cats and dogs
- Mold spores
How are seasonal allergies treated?
People with seasonal allergies might use one or more of the following treatments to help reduce their symptoms:
- Nose rinses
- Steroid sprays
- Antihistamines
- Decongestants
- Allergy shots
- Allergy pills (under the tongue)
For a referral to an Englewood Hospital allergy specialist, call 866-980-3462 or visit www.englewoodhospital.com.
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