Congestion can be uncomfortable and disruptive. Many people wonder if their stuffy nose is caused by seasonal allergies or something else entirely. During the fall months, there are many different conditions that can lead to congestion, including viral infections as well as fall allergies. Understanding the root cause of your symptoms is the first step to getting the right treatment and feeling better quickly.
If you’re struggling with congestion and in need of rapid symptom relief, you can count on AFC Urgent Care Burlington for convenient and affordable care! We offer same-day illness symptom treatment for patients of all ages. Simply walk in when it’s convenient, or save your spot online in advance below.
Common Causes of Congestion in the Fall
Congestion occurs when the tissues lining the nasal passages become swollen, usually due to inflammation. This swelling can block airflow, leading to a stuffy nose or difficulty breathing. While you may immediately assume you’re sick if you’re feeling congested, there are a few different potential causes of congestion in the fall months. Common causes include:
- Colds and flu: Viral infections often trigger congestion that lasts a few days to a week.
- Sinus infections: These can cause prolonged congestion along with facial pain and thick mucus.
- Seasonal allergies: Pollen and other allergens inflame the nasal passages.
- Irritants: Smoke, strong odors, or air pollution can also lead to nasal blockage.
Do Seasonal Allergies Cause Congestion?
Yes. Seasonal allergies are one of the most common causes of nasal congestion, especially during spring, summer, and fall. When your immune system overreacts to allergens like pollen, mold spores, or grass, it releases histamines. These chemicals cause swelling in the nasal passages, leading to that familiar “stuffy nose” sensation.
Unlike congestion from a cold, allergy-related congestion often comes with sneezing, itchy eyes, and clear nasal discharge. It also tends to last as long as you are exposed to the allergen rather than clearing up in a few days. This means that allergy symptoms can come and go, and last for weeks on end depending on what you’re allergic to and how often you’re exposed to your allergens.
Causes of Seasonal Allergies During the Fall
Seasonal allergies are triggered by airborne particles that change throughout the year. While most associate seasonal allergies with pollen exposure in the spring months, fall allergies are extremely common. They are typically caused by weeds like ragweed that release pollen that can cause severe symptoms. However, as the leaves fall in autumn, mold spores are another common allergen that is seen in the fall. Knowing what triggers your allergies can help you take preventive steps, such as limiting outdoor exposure during peak pollen times or using an air purifier indoors.
Visit AFC Burlington for Seasonal Allergy Care
While congestion is a very common symptom of many different conditions, seasonal allergies are a very common cause of congestion in the fall due to moldy leaves and ragweed pollen. Seasonal allergies can be tricky to diagnose, so seeking medical care is the most efficient way to identify the true cause of your symptoms so that you can treat them effectively.
At AFC Urgent Care Burlington, our walk-in clinic makes it easy to receive prompt treatment for congestion. We’re open 7 days a week from 8am to 8pm, and offer same-day care on a walk-in basis for patients in Burlington, MA and the surrounding communities. We accept most medical insurance plans, and have competitive rates for self-paying patients. Give us a call to learn more about the services we’re able to provide at (781) 270-4700.
