Many of us experience seasonal allergies at least once, if not twice yearly. Being from the Midwest, we typically get excited as our seasons change as they bring such different environments. Our winter and summer seasons tend to see 100+ degree temperature changes. Along with these temperature changes comes the freezing and thawing of the outdoors.
Spring vs. Fall Allergies
Is one season worse than the other for those who suffer from allergies? According to the medical staff at Sioux Falls Urgent Care, they tend to see about the same amount of patients in the spring and fall for allergies. However, they tend to see patients with more symptoms in the spring months. This is due to cold and flu season overlapping with spring allergies. As a result, many patients will come in to be seen thinking they have a cold. However, it turns out they are experiencing spring allergies.
Spring Allergies
We look forward to the warmer weather, sunshine, and snow melting. However, we usually forget that dust mites, mold, and dander are released into the air as the snow melts. In addition, plants, trees, and grass release new pollens into the air, causing spring allergies to flare up.
Fall allergies
Fall allergies are usually brought on by a plant that blooms and releases pollen, mainly in the fall months. This culprit is called Ragweed and is common in the Midwest. These allergies usually stop when the weather is cold enough to freeze the ground with ice or snow.
Symptoms
While triggers for allergies change from season to season, many symptoms remain the same.
- Runny nose
- Itchy eyes
- Sneezing
- Coughing
- Congestion
- Headaches
- Itchy throat
Allergies can develop at any point in your life due to exposure to new allergens or a change in your immune system.
Tips to ease your seasonal allergies
To calm the immune-system response, treatment of seasonal allergies usually includes over-the-counter antihistamines, nasal steroid sprays, or decongestants. Sometimes steroids can be given depending on your allergy history and situation. Eliminating the allergen from the equation will help you. Changing the air filter in your furnace/air conditioner makes a difference, too. Avoid being outdoors, especially on windy days, or opening your windows. Avoiding triggers to allergies is your best bet.
