Goodbye, Cold and Flu Season. Hello, Seasonal Allergies.
February 29, 2024
By: Kelli Wall, NP
Categories: ENT, Primary Care, Urgent Care
According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, in 2021, roughly 81 million people in the United States were diagnosed with hay fever (seasonal allergic rhinitis). This means approximately 26% of adults (67 million) and 19% of children (14 million) were affected.
The sneezy, itchy, watery-eyed, rashy, runny nose symptoms of seasonal allergies are quite common, so if you’re among those affected, you’re not alone.
What Causes Seasonal Allergies?
Pollen, trees, flowers and grass are a few allergen triggers. Each season, these wonders of nature bloom, releasing allergy pollutants, resulting in utter misery for allergy sufferers.
The pollen count, which monitors the amount of pollen in the air at any given time, provides information about the severity of your symptoms. That’s why you may feel worse in early spring when hazy, yellow-green pollen is prevalent, covering every outdoor surface.
How Early May People Begin to Experience Seasonal Allergies?
Allergies can be lifelong.
In What Way Are Allergy Symptoms Different from Cold Symptoms?
Some symptoms of allergies and the common cold overlap. These include sneezing, congestion, nasal discharge, coughing and fatigue.
Additionally, allergies may cause watery eyes, itchy nose/throat/eyes, rash, hives, post nasal drip, and, rarely, trouble breathing and vomiting.
Can Seasonal Allergies be Cured?
Can Moving to a Different Part of the Country Eliminate Seasonal Allergies?
Are There Natural Remedies for Seasonal Allergies?
- Close windows at night.
- Wash your clothes/body/hair before bed.
- Stay indoors during high pollen counts.
- Limit exercise to inside activities or times when allergens are low.
What are the Best Over-the-Counter Remedies for Seasonal Allergies?
When Should I See a Doctor for Seasonal Allergies?
Kelli Wall, NP
Kelli Wall is a patient-focused, compassionate, board-certified family nurse practitioner with clinical interests in preventive health and working with young adults to provide them with a strong foundation for lifelong health. She received her bachelor’s degree in nursing from Rush University in Chicago, Illinois, and master’s degree in nursing from University of St. Francis in Joliet, Illinois.
Wall believes in facilitating patient participation in establishing health care goals through compassion, education and understanding. Outside of work, she enjoys celebrating family and friends, outdoor sports, travel, volunteering at Habitat for Humanity and other organizations.