What Makes an Allergy Seasonal?
All allergic reactions are caused by your immune system overreacting to something in your environment, but the reaction can vary from life-threatening to merely annoying. Seasonal allergies tend to trigger reactions like a runny nose or sneezing rather than allergies to medications, foods, or insect stings, which can cause anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening.
At Apex Medical Center's three locations, our expert providers can help you understand your allergies and how to best manage them. Whether you need a primary care provider to ensure you have a prescription for injectable epinephrine at all times, or you’re looking for a provider who can help you know what to do about seasonal allergies, we can help!
Defining seasonal
If you have seasonal allergies, you only have allergic reactions during a particular season. For example, the most common trigger of seasonal allergies is pollen. You'll have allergy symptoms during the season when certain plants produce excessive pollen—for many people, that's spring.
Others are allergic to ragweed, which produces pollen in the fall. To a considerable extent, when seasonal allergies flare up, it depends on where you live.
Symptoms of seasonal allergies
Symptoms of seasonal allergies vary a great deal. You may just have a stuffy nose or itchy eyes. Or you may have some combination of common symptoms such as:
- Runny nose with clear mucus
- Sneezing
- Headache
- Coughing
- Itchy nose or mouth
- Sore throat
Whether you're allergic to pollen or mold, you'll likely have the same symptoms. It also doesn't matter whether you tend to have symptoms in the spring or fall; they'll probably be the same kinds of symptoms.
Managing seasonal allergies
The most straightforward way to avoid allergy symptoms is to avoid whatever you're allergic to, but that's not always possible. You may be able to limit your exposure to some extent by doing things like staying inside, but sometimes, it's simply not possible.
Our number one recommendation is to discuss your symptoms with your healthcare provider. They may suggest over-the-counter medications or prescription medications, or they may recommend you see a specialist.
You may want to keep a diary to determine when your symptoms are worst. This can help you narrow down what you're likely allergic to and shape your management plan.
If you'd like to learn more about your specific allergies and what you can do about them, schedule an appointment at Apex Medical Center's most convenient location. We're always happy to answer your questions and provide treatment suggestions based on your unique circumstances.