Allergy Season is Here: What’s Making You Sneeze?

Spring is here, and while the warming temperatures and sprouting greenery make us want to get outdoors, the allergens send us right back in. Seasonal allergies can have you feeling miserable with symptoms like itchy eyes, a runny nose, sneezing, coughing, and even fatigue. Avoiding the allergen is the best way to keep from having a reaction. But if you aren’t sure what is actually causing your allergy symptoms, it can be almost impossible to avoid it.

What are Allergies?

Every day, allergens in the air enter our bodies. Typically, the immune system protects us from foreign substances and we don’t have any sort of reaction. In those with allergies, however, the immune system overreacts to a usually harmless substance, releasing histamines and other antibodies that give us the symptoms of an allergic reaction.

There are a variety of allergies one can suffer from, such as medicines, insect bites or stings, chemicals, and foods. Those with seasonal allergies will experience symptoms as plants begin to grow back and release pollen, or certain weather changes encourage the growth of things like mold and mildew. The severity of the allergic reaction can vary from person-to-person, and some reactions can be life-threatening if not treated right away.

Identifying the Allergen

Allergy symptoms can be debilitating, so getting tested to identify what your body is reacting to can help bring answers and relief. An allergist or immunologist can help identify what is causing your reaction through using either a skin or blood test. By narrowing down the offending allergens, a more focused treatment plan can be provided to keep you safe and comfortable.

Treating Allergies

Properly treating your allergies will depend on what may be causing your discomfort. For those that experience life-threatening reactions, having emergency medication on hand at all times is essential. Individuals who experience typical seasonal allergies can often find relief by using over-the-counter allergy medications. Since there are many options to choose from, be sure to discuss these with your doctor to determine which one may be right for you.

This year’s seasonal allergies are projected to be fairly intense for much of the U.S. If you need help finding relief, visit one of our area Midwest Express Clinic locations today. We will help narrow down the cause of your allergies by discussing your symptoms and lifestyle habits, as well as providing additional testing as necessary to get you back to enjoying springtime again.