Do your allergy symptoms only seem to flare during certain times of the year? You may have seasonal allergies. Though not always a serious health problem, you don’t have to suffer through the sneezing, coughing, and congestion that comes with seasonal allergies. Secil Schodroski, FNP-C, DNP, and the team at The Health & Wellness Center in St. Louis, Missouri, treat seasonal allergies with medication and allergy shots. To get relief from your seasonal allergies, call the office or book an appointment online today.
Seasonal Allergies Q & A
What are seasonal allergies?
Seasonal allergies, also known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis, refer to allergies that only occur during certain times of the year. Allergies are an immune system reaction to a substance your body considers dangerous.
When you inhale, touch, or eat this substance — known as an allergen — your immune system releases antibodies to attack and destroy it. This reaction also triggers the release of histamine and other substances that cause an allergic reaction or allergy symptoms.
The causes of most seasonal allergies are pollen, grass, ragweed, or mold. The season you develop your allergy symptoms may help pinpoint what you’re allergic to and help with your treatment options.
The Health & Wellness Center also treats people with allergies to dust and pet dander.
What are the symptoms of seasonal allergies?
Seasonal allergies most often affect the upper respiratory system. Common symptoms include:
- Runny nose
- Sneezing
- Congestion
- Coughing
- Watery, itchy eyes
- Itchy or sore throat
- Rash
- Fatigue
- Inflammation
- Sinus swelling
Your allergy symptoms may develop quickly and last for weeks or months or as long as you experience exposure to the allergen.
Dust and pet allergy symptoms are similar to seasonal allergies. And like seasonal allergies, the severity of your symptoms may depend on the level of exposure.
How are seasonal allergies diagnosed?
The Health & Wellness Center team diagnoses seasonal allergies after a comprehensive history and physical.
However, to determine the allergen causing your symptoms, they run allergy tests. Testing may include a skin patch test or bloodwork.
Identifying the allergen causing your symptoms helps the team develop the most effective treatment plan. It’s not uncommon for those with allergies to be allergic to more than one substance.
How are seasonal allergies treated?
The Health & Wellness Center team customizes your seasonal allergy treatment plan based on the type of allergies you have and the severity of your symptoms. Treatment may include:
- Limiting exposure to the allergen
- Decongestant
- Antihistamine
- Nasal steroid spray
If your seasonal allergy symptoms are severe or allergy medication fails to provide adequate relief, the team may recommend allergy shots. Allergy shots desensitize your body to the allergen, reducing the severity of your symptoms.
Seasonal allergies affect your comfort and health. To get relief from your symptoms, call The Health & Wellness Center, or schedule an appointment online today.