For many people, the end of summer doesn’t mean the end of allergy season. In fact, late summer can be one of the worst times of year for seasonal allergies. As temperatures remain warm and certain plants release pollen, you may suddenly find yourself dealing with sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes, a runny nose, or an irritated throat. Late summer allergies can be especially frustrating because their symptoms can look similar to a cold or other respiratory illness. If you’ve spent the season enjoying time outside and suddenly can’t stop sneezing, allergies may be the reason. Fortunately, there are several ways to reduce your exposure to allergens and relieve symptoms. Here’s what causes late summer allergies, what you can do for quick relief, and when it may be time to visit urgent care.
For same-day seasonal allergy relief, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Aurora Havana. Our team is available 7 days a week to treat your symptoms, no matter the season. Just walk-in or book your visit below.
What Causes Late Summer Allergies?
Seasonal allergies occur when your immune system reacts to normally harmless substances in the environment. During late summer, weed pollen is one of the most common triggers. Ragweed is well known for causing seasonal allergy symptoms. Depending on where you live and the weather conditions, ragweed pollen can begin appearing in late summer and remain present into the fall. Other possible triggers include:
- Grass pollen
- Other weed pollens
- Mold spores
- Dust mites
- Allergies carried inside on clothing or pets
Warm, dry, and windy weather can allow pollen to travel through the air more easily. Rain can temporarily reduce airborne pollen, but damp conditions may contribute to increased mold growth. If your symptoms consistently become worse after spending time outside or during certain times of the year, seasonal allergies may be contributing.
What Do Late Summer Allergy Symptoms Feel Like?
Allergy symptoms can vary from person to person, but they commonly affect the nose, eyes, throat, and sinuses. Typical symptoms include:
- Sneezing
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Itchy nose or throat
- Watery, itchy, or red eyes
- Postnasal drip
- Sinus pressure
- Mild cough
- Scratchy throat
Unlike many viral infections, seasonal allergies typically do not cause a fever. Allergy symptoms can also continue for weeks or fluctuate depending on your exposure to the allergen. One of the easiest ways to distinguish allergies from a cold is to look at the overall pattern. If you experience repeated sneezing and itchy, watery eyes every time you’re exposed to certain environments, allergies may be more likely.
How Can You Quickly Relieve Late Summer Allergy Symptoms?
If allergies are making it difficult to enjoy the last weeks of summer, reducing your exposure to allergens can provide significant relief. Several strategies can help, including:
Check the Pollen Forecast
Before spending a lot of time outside, check your local pollen levels. If pollen counts are high, consider moving outdoor activities indoors or scheduling them for a time when pollen levels may be lower. This can be especially helpful if you know which allergens are triggering your symptoms.
Keep Pollen Out of Your Home
Pollen can easily get inside, via clothing, shoes, hair, and pets. After spending time outside, consider changing clothes, showering before bed, washing your hair, leaving shoes near the door, washing outdoor clothing, and keeping windows closed. These steps can reduce the amount of pollen circulating inside your house.
Rinse Your Sinuses
A saline nasal spray or rinse can help remove mucus and allergens from the nasal passages. This may reduce congestion and irritation without the use of medication. If you’re using a nasal irrigation device, always follow the product’s instructions.
Try Over-the-Counter Allergy Medication
Over-the-counter antihistamines can help relieve symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and a runny nose. Certain nasal sprays may also help reduce nasal inflammation and congestion. Because different medications work differently, follow the package directions or consult with a healthcare provider.
When to Visit Urgent Care for Allergy Symptoms
Most seasonal allergies can be managed at home, but certain symptoms warrant a medical evaluation. Visit urgent care if your allergy-like symptoms are:
- Severe or worsening
- Interfering with sleep or daily activities
- Not improving with your usual allergy treatments
- Accompanied by a persistent cough or wheezing
- Accompanied by a fever or significant fatigue
- Causing sinus or facial pain
- Making it difficult to breathe normally
Urgent care providers can help determine whether symptoms that seem like allergies may actually be caused by another condition, such as a respiratory infection or sinus infection.
Visit AFC Urgent Care Aurora Havana for Same-Day Seasonal Allergy Treatment
Late summer allergies can make the transition toward fall uncomfortable, but you don’t have to spend the season constantly sneezing and rubbing your nose. Understanding your triggers, limiting your exposure to pollen, keeping allergies outside, and using treatments can help you manage symptoms. Struggling with allergies? Visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Aurora Havana for prompt evaluation and treatment. Our healthcare team can assess your symptoms, help determine whether allergies or another condition may be responsible, and recommend appropriate next steps to help you feel better quickly. We accept most health insurance plans and offer low-cost options for those without. If you have any additional questions about our services, please contact our team directly at (303) 343-6000.