We don’t know about you, but we are happy to see the spring season arrive once more! While we are getting ready to dust off our summer clothes and enjoy the warmer days ahead, we also have to prepare for the arrival of spring allergy season.

The most common seasonal allergen is pollen, and there is certainly no shortage of that around here! Seasonal allergy symptoms can range from mild to severe, so knowing what your triggers are can help you manage your symptoms.

Our AFC Urgent Care Cleveland team explains more about seasonal allergies below, so check it out!

Why Do Seasonal Allergies Happen?

When spring arrives, pollen and other seasonal allergens enter the air. If your body recognizes this pollen as a threat to you, it will trigger an immune response to try and eliminate the intruder from your body. Seasonal allergy reactions aren’t inherently dangerous, but they can be really annoying!

The reason you have a reaction is because your body is working hard to overcome the allergen, similar to when you get a cold or another illness. Your body releases histamine to help hurry this process along, which is why many people experience a runny nose or itchy, watery eyes.

Classic Seasonal Allergy Symptoms

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

Should I Go to Urgent Care for My Allergies?

While there is no cure for seasonal allergies, your symptoms can certainly be treated to help you find some relief. One way to manage your symptoms is to avoid going outside on high pollen count days. It’s also a good idea to keep your indoor air as clean as possible by swapping out your air filters and keeping up with your routine cleaning and dusting.

If you are having trouble managing your symptoms at home, you can certainly come see us! We can discuss your specific symptoms and triggers, and we can chat about what kind of OTC medication is best for you. Remember, while seasonal allergies are more of a nuisance than anything, severe allergic reactions can be life-threatening. If you are worried about an allergic reaction, seek medical care immediately.

Signs of a Life-Threatening 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 Cleveland.