How We Help Patients Manage Seasonal Allergies

For many people, the arrival of spring brings relief from the cold weather. But for others, it means the start of another battle—seasonal allergies. Seasonal allergies are caused by an allergic reaction to pollen, dust mites, or pet dander. They can cause a wide range of symptoms, such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and congestion. If you’re one of the millions of Americans who suffer from seasonal allergies, don’t worry—urgent care can help!

What are allergies?

Allergies are caused when the body’s immune system overreacts to a particular substance. Pollen, dust mites, and pet dander are some of the most common allergens. When these allergens come into contact with the body, they trigger the release of histamine. Histamine is a chemical that causes many of the symptoms of allergies, such as sneezing and a runny nose.

Seasonal allergy symptoms, causes, peak times and more

Symptoms of seasonal allergies can vary from person to person. Some people may only experience a few mild symptoms, while others may have more severe reactions. The most common symptoms of seasonal allergies are:

Sneezing
Itchy eyes
Runny nose
Congestion

Allergies can be caused by a variety of things, including pollen, dust mites, and pet dander. The season in which someone experiences the most symptoms also varies. Some people get allergies in the winter when they’re exposed to indoor allergens like dust mites. Others get them in the spring, when they’re exposed to outdoor allergens like pollen. And still, others get them in the summer, when they’re exposed to both indoor and outdoor allergens.

There is no one “peak season” for allergies—symptoms can occur at any time of year. However, they are generally more severe during the spring and summer months.

What’s difference between seasonal allergies and Covid 19?

Seasonal allergies are a common, year-round condition that is caused by exposure to allergens like pollen, dust mites, and pet dander. Covid 19 is a new, highly contagious virus that has been causing widespread outbreaks around the world. While their symptoms can sometimes be considered similar ultimately they are two different conditions.

What is an allergy test?

If you’re not sure whether you have seasonal allergies, your doctor may perform an allergy test. Allergy tests involve exposing the patient to small amounts of common allergens. If the patient experiences a reaction, such as sneezing or a runny nose, the doctor can then identify the allergen that is causing the reaction.

How can urgent care help with seasonal allergies?

iCare Urgent care can help people manage their seasonal allergies in a number of ways. First, if you’re experiencing symptoms, urgent care can provide relief. Second, if you’ve been diagnosed with seasonal allergies, our urgent care can provide treatment. Treatment may include medications like antihistamines or nasal steroids, or it may involve allergy shots.

Common Seasonal Allergy Triggers

Dust mites are tiny creatures that thrive in warm, humid environments. They can be found in mattresses, bedding, carpets, and furniture.

Pet dander is made up of tiny flakes of skin that come off animals like cats and dogs. Pet dander is a common allergen and can trigger reactions in people who are allergic to animals.

Pollen is a fine powder that is released by flowers and trees. It can cause reactions in people who are allergic to it.

Mold is a type of fungus that can be found in damp environments like basements and bathrooms. It can cause reactions in people who are allergic to it.

In Texas specifically, our most common allergens include; Cedar pollen, grass pollen, weed pollen (such as ragweed), and Alternaria alternata (a type of mold).

How can I prevent my seasonal allergies?

There is no one definitive answer to this question. However, there are a few things you can do to help minimize your exposure to allergens:

Keep your home clean and free of dust mites by regularly washing bedding and vacuuming carpets.
Avoid spending time outdoors when pollen levels are high.
Avoid contact with pets if you are allergic to pet dander.
If you have mold allergies, avoid areas that are damp and humid.
If you are allergic to cedar, try to avoid coming in contact with it.

Some over-the-counter medications to consider before allergies set in include Claritin, Allegra, or Zyrtec.

If you are experiencing severe symptoms or if your allergies are not responding to over-the-counter medications, make an appointment with your doctor. They may prescribe a stronger medication or refer you to an allergist for allergy shots.

Frequently Asked Questions About Seasonal Allergies

Q: Can seasonal allergies be serious for some people?

A: Yes, seasonal allergies can be serious for some people. In some cases, they can lead to sinus infections or asthma.

Q: Do seasonal allergies make you tired?

A: Some people do report feeling tired when they have seasonal allergies. This is likely due to the fact that allergies can cause a person to feel congested and not get a good night’s sleep.

Q: How to cure seasonal allergies?

A: There is no one cure for seasonal allergies. However, there are a number of treatments that can help lessen the symptoms. This includes medications like antihistamines or nasal steroids, or it may involve allergy shots.

Q: How to help a child with seasonal allergies?

A: If your child is experiencing symptoms of seasonal allergies, you can help them by keeping their environment clean and free of allergens. You can also give them over-the-counter medications to help lessen their symptoms. If the symptoms are severe, make an appointment with their doctor.

Q: Can I take allergy medicine while pregnant?

A: It is best to speak with your doctor before taking any medication while pregnant. However, many over-the-counter allergy medications are considered safe to take during pregnancy.

Q: What should I do if my seasonal allergies are not responding to over-the-counter medications?

A: If your seasonal allergies are not responding to over-the-counter medications, speak with your doctor. They may prescribe a stronger medication or refer you to an allergist for allergy shots.

Seasonal Allergy Relief at iCare Urgent Care – Argyle, TX

If you are experiencing symptoms of seasonal allergies, iCare Urgent care can provide relief. We offer a variety of medications to help treat your allergies, including antihistamines and nasal steroids. Best of all we allow walk-ins, low wait times and accept most major insurance providers. Come see us today and take advantage of these many benefits all allergy season long!