How To Manage Pollen Allergies in the Spring

Spring is a beautiful season. There are flowers blooming in the fields, trees are full of vibrant leaves, and temperatures are finally warming up. But amidst all the beauty and renewal of spring, some people begin to suffer from seasonal allergy symptoms. In springtime, as the trees, grasses and flowers start to boom, they also start to release pollen into the air. And when this happens, people with pollen allergies can have a really unpleasant season. But luckily, there are ways to manage pollen allergies so you can get the relief you need when you need it.

For same-day seasonal allergy relief, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Cedar Grove. Our certified medical providers can diagnose your allergies and plan treatment accordingly. Just walk-in today!

Understanding Pollen Allergies

Pollen allergies occur when the body’s immune system mistakenly sees the pollen as dangerous to the body and then releases some antibodies to attack those allergens. This reaction causes histamines to be released in the body and that is what causes the symptoms of allergies. Allergic reactions to pollen can be different based on the degree of pollen exposure, the chemical composition of  the pollen and personal factors of the person with the allergies. 

Common signs and symptoms of a pollen allergy include:

• Red, watering, itchy eyes
• Sneezing
• Coughing
• Runny nose
• Suffy, congested nose
• Post nasal drip
• Hives and skin rashes

How To Prevent Exposure To Pollen In Springtime

There’s no need to let the fear of pollen ruin your spring experience, you can limit exposure through the following ways:

1. Be up to date on pollen counts in your area
2. Reduce time outside when pollen counts are high
3. Cut garden grass short in the spring
4. Wear a dust mask when handling plants, trees, grass or flowers
5. Remove decomposing logs and wood from your surrounding
6. Remove pollen from your clothing
7. Wash and dry clothing indoors as much as you can
8. Bath regularly to remove pollen from your hair and body
9. Remove pollen from your couch, bed and bed linen
10. Change clothes after being outdoors
11. Wear protective clothing outdoors like gloves, sunglasses, masks and hats, to limit contact with pollen
12. Clean and vacuum your home thoroughly

Treatment For Spring Allergies

The first step in treating spring allergies is an accurate diagnosis. At urgent care centers, skilled healthcare professionals will evaluate your symptoms, medical history, and potential triggers to determine if your symptoms are indeed caused by seasonal allergies. Your medical provider may prescribe or recommend over-the-counter antihistamines, decongestants, or nasal corticosteroids to alleviate symptoms. These medications can provide rapid relief to help you breathe easier. Your provider can offer valuable education on allergy triggers, avoidance strategies, and lifestyle modifications to help you better manage allergies and minimize flare-ups. 

Get Seasonal Allergy Relief at AFC Urgent Care Cedar Grove

With prompt and effective treatment, you can find relief from pollen allergy symptoms and get back to enjoying the spring season! Are you suffering from seasonal allergies? Come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Cedar Grove for walk-in treatment. Don’t let allergies hold you back– seek treatment today at our urgent care center with no appointment necessary. If you have any additional questions about allergy treatment, or other services we provide, please contact us directly at (973) 239-2300.