Seasonal allergies, triggered by pollen and other environmental allergens, are a common nuisance for many people, particularly during spring and fall. While symptoms typically include sneezing, nasal congestion, and itchy eyes, some may also experience a severe sore throat. This can occur due to postnasal drip, where mucus from the sinuses drips down the back of the throat, causing irritation and inflammation.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of seasonal allergies, AFC Urgent Care Farmington can help. Our walk-in clinic offers seasonal allergy diagnosis and relief on a walk-in basis for patients near Farmington, NM. Simply walk into the clinic when it’s convenient for you, or schedule an appointment online below.
Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies
Seasonal allergies can cause a wide range of symptoms. Developing a sore throat as the result of seasonal allergy exposure is very common. However, seasonal allergies can also cause the following symptoms:
- A sore throat
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Nasal congestion
- Rash
- Hives
- Irritated eyes
- Coughing or the need to frequently clear the throat
How to Help Prevent an Allergy-Induced Sore Throat
Preventing a sore throat caused by allergies involves managing exposure to allergens and reducing inflammation. Limiting allergen exposure by staying indoors on high pollen days, keeping windows closed, and using air purifiers with HEPA filters to reduce allergens in your home are all effective ways to manage allergy symptoms, but may not always be possible.
Showering after spending time outdoors to remove pollen from your skin and hair, and managing your symptoms with medications, are often the most realistic and effective ways to stay comfortable during allergy season.
If you experience a sore throat from spring allergies, some effective steps to manage discomfort and prevent symptoms like a sore throat from appearing include:
- Use saline nasal sprays: These help flush out allergens from your nasal passages and prevent postnasal drip, often leading to throat irritation.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps moisten your throat and can thin mucus, reducing postnasal drip.
- Allergy medications: Antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal corticosteroids can help control allergy symptoms and prevent throat irritation.
- Monitor indoor humidity: Use a humidifier if your home is too dry, as dry air can worsen throat discomfort.
Help Soothe a Sore Throat From Allergies with These Remedies
If you’re still experiencing a sore throat after taking preventative measures to manage your symptoms, there are several at-home remedies you can try to can help relieve discomfort and support healing:
- Warm salt water gargle: Gargling with warm salt water several times daily can reduce inflammation and flush out irritants.
- Honey and lemon: A spoonful of honey or a warm drink with honey and lemon can coat the throat, reduce irritation, and provide mild antibacterial benefits.
- Menthol or eucalyptus lozenges: These can temporarily numb the throat, offering quick relief from pain and irritation.
While most sore throats caused by allergies can be managed with at-home remedies and over-the-counter treatments, knowing when to seek professional help is essential. If your sore throat becomes severe or is accompanied by a high fever, difficulty swallowing, or swollen glands, it may indicate a more serious condition that requires medical attention. Don't hesitate to seek care when symptoms go beyond typical allergy discomfort.
Walk Into AFC Farmington for Spring Allergy Symptom Relief
Seasonal allergies can cause a variety of uncomfortable symptoms, including a severe sore throat. If you’re struggling to manage your allergy symptoms at home, AFC Urgent Care Farmington can help. Our walk-in clinic offers relief for seasonal allergies, as well as diagnosis and treatment for a severe sore throat. We’re open 7 days a week, just walk into the clinic when it’s convenient.
We understand the importance of having access to prompt care for symptoms like a severe sore throat. That is why we never require patients to schedule an appointment far in advance. Our clinic accepts most medical insurance plans and offers affordable care for self-paying patients. Walk in today, or give us a call at (505) 326-6000 to learn more.
