The change of season brings warm days and, unfortunately, spring allergies. Has all the pollen gotten your nose itching and eyes watering? Read on to find out what allergies are, what can cause them, and how to ease your symptoms.
An allergic reaction occurs when your body comes into contact with a foreign substance, called an allergen (pollen, bee venom, etc.). Your body identifies this substance as harmful, even when it isn’t. Then, when you come into contact with that allergen again, it will react to it, causing allergy symptoms.
Allergy symptoms vary from person to person and depend on the particular allergy. Some common symptoms include: itchy, watery eyes; sneezing; runny nose; and congestion. These symptoms may seem like a cold, but allergy symptoms and cold symptoms differ in two respects. Colds generally include a fever, whereas allergies do not, and colds generally last 7-10 days while allergy symptoms may be present an entire season.
If your seasonal allergies are generally mild, nasal sprays and oral antihistamines can help manage the symptoms. However, your body may eventually build up tolerance to an over-the-counter (OTC) medication. If OTC treatments won’t reduce your symptoms, it may be time to talk with a physician. You may need a prescription or other treatment. By following these tips, making a few lifestyle changes, and seeing a doctor, you can enjoy the great outdoors with everyone else this spring.
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