Known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis, these allergies prevalent in spring and summer can lead to a range of symptoms, including sneezing, a runny nose, watery eyes, itchy throat, congestion, fatigue, headaches, and skin rashes. In simpler terms, they can be quite distressing. Fortunately, Christina Kopp, ARNP, an advanced nurse practitioner for UI Urgent Care, offers some practical tips to alleviate the challenges posed by seasonal allergies.
- Minimize Exposure to Triggers Effectively dealing with seasonal allergies involves minimizing exposure to triggers. For instance, if pollen is the culprit, consider implementing the following measures:
- Utilize air conditioning in both your home and car.
- Refrain from opening windows to reduce exposure to allergens like pollen.
- Change air filters regularly and use an air purifier to diminish the presence of airborne pollens.
- Engage in regular vacuuming and change bedding frequently to decrease exposure to pollen.
- Showering after outdoor activities can wash away pollen from your skin, eliminating the trigger.
- Over-the-Counter Medications Christina Kopp emphasizes the use of over-the-counter medications to manage symptoms and enhance comfort during outdoor activities. Antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, and saline nasal sprays can be particularly effective:
- Antihistamines block the effects of histamine, a chemical released during allergic reactions.
- Nasal corticosteroids reduce inflammation in nasal passages.
- Saline nasal sprays help rinse away allergens.
- Seek Walk-in Appointments at UI Urgent Care or UI QuickCare Clinics For individuals experiencing severe allergies unresponsive to other treatments, seeking guidance from a healthcare provider is recommended. If necessary, a provider may refer the individual to a specialist for further testing, especially if severe allergy symptoms persist.
For more content see https://findwhosabiblog.com/ and follow @findwhosabi_ on Instagram