How to Deal with Seasonal Allergies

It’s springtime! That means allergy season is in full swing. 

People of different ages suffer from seasonal allergies every year, affecting overall mood and health. 

To help you manage that ongoing sneeze, congestion and runny nose, below are some helpful tips to add to your health toolbox. 

Why Allergies Occur

Allergies, which affect more than 60 million people in the United States, can occur when allergens like pollen enter the body and cause an allergic reaction or symptoms of hay fever. Pollen, which mostly occurs in the spring, is an airborne allergen that is released as small particles stemming from blooming trees and flowers, grass and weeds. According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the quantity and type of pollen in the air depends on the season and geographic region. Allergies can also come from cigarette smoke, cleaning supplies, perfumes, colognes and dust. 

Symptoms

There are several types of allergies that trigger different symptoms. Allergic rhinitis, or hay fever, affects your immune system causing sneezing, runny nose, and congestion. Exposure to pollen and other allergens can also trigger symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis. Allergic conjunctivitis is the inflammation of the lining of the eye, causing red, watery or itchy eyes. Allergens can cause asthma attacks and increases in hospital admissions for respiratory illness.

Managing Allergies

While allergy symptoms can be difficult to eliminate, there are ways to help manage them. If you have seasonal allergies, it’s important to monitor pollen levels daily. It’s helpful to limit your time spent outdoors when pollen is high and keep indoor air clean as much as possible. You also should avoid other environments and products that increase your allergy levels. If allergies persist, ask your physician which over the counter medications, decongestants and nasal spray may help relieve your symptoms. 

Testing 

To find out what’s causing your symptoms, talk to your physician about getting tested. BayCare Laboratories offer a full range of allergy testing at all of its locations across the Tampa Bay area. By getting a simple allergy blood test, you’ll be able to uncover what could be causing your symptoms and what allergic triggers to avoid. 

For more information, visit BayCareLabs.org.