Fall in Gastonia brings cooler temperatures, football games, changing leaves and plenty of time outdoors. But for many people, it also brings something less enjoyable: ragweed season. If your seasonal allergies seem especially intense this time of year, you’re not alone.
Sneezing, congestion and itchy eyes can make it hard to enjoy your normal routine. And when symptoms become severe, it can be difficult to know whether you should continue managing them at home or seek medical care. That’s where AFC Gastonia can help.
Why Are Fall Allergies So Bad?
Ragweed is one of the most common triggers of fall seasonal allergies. Its pollen can travel through the air and cause an immune response in people who are sensitive to it. Even if you usually have mild allergies, symptoms can sometimes become more bothersome during peak pollen season. Common symptoms include:
- Frequent sneezing
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Itchy, watery or red eyes
- Postnasal drip
- Scratchy or irritated throat
- Coughing
- Sinus pressure
- Fatigue or difficulty sleeping
Unlike a cold, seasonal allergies typically don’t cause a fever. Symptoms may also continue as long as you’re exposed to the allergen.
When Should You Consider Urgent Care for Allergies?
Mild allergy symptoms can often be managed with over-the-counter medications and by limiting exposure to pollen. But if your symptoms are severe, persistent or interfering with your day-to-day life, it may be time to get checked out.
Urgent care can be especially helpful when you’re dealing with symptoms such as significant sinus pressure, persistent coughing, worsening congestion or symptoms that aren’t improving with your usual allergy routine. An AFC provider can evaluate your symptoms and help determine whether you’re dealing with allergies or something else, such as a sinus infection, respiratory infection or another condition with similar symptoms.
Can Allergies Turn Into a Sinus Infection?
Allergies themselves don’t cause a bacterial sinus infection, but ongoing nasal inflammation and congestion can sometimes contribute to sinus problems. If you’re experiencing worsening facial pressure or pain, thick nasal drainage, symptoms that aren’t improving or symptoms that seem to be getting worse instead of better, an evaluation can help determine what’s going on. It’s also worth getting checked if you aren’t sure whether you’re experiencing another illness. Allergy symptoms and respiratory infections can overlap, especially during the fall.
How Can You Manage Ragweed Allergies at Home?
There are a few simple ways to reduce your exposure to pollen and make allergy season more manageable:
Keep an eye on pollen levels. On high-pollen days, consider limiting extended outdoor activities when possible.
Shower after spending time outside. Pollen can stick to your hair, skin and clothing, so changing clothes and showering can help keep it out of your home.
Keep windows closed. Opening the windows may feel refreshing on a cool fall day, but it can also let pollen inside.
Wash bedding regularly. Regular washing can help remove pollen and other allergens that accumulate over time.
Take allergy medication as directed. If you regularly experience seasonal allergies, taking your usual medication consistently may help keep symptoms under control.
When Is It More Than an Allergy?
Some symptoms shouldn’t simply be blamed on seasonal allergies. Seek prompt medical attention for significant trouble breathing, chest pain, swelling of the lips or tongue, severe wheezing or other serious symptoms.
For severe or life-threatening symptoms, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department. For less urgent symptoms that are making fall allergy season miserable, an urgent care visit can be a convenient way to get evaluated without waiting for a routine appointment.
Get Help With Severe Fall Allergies at AFC Gastonia
Ragweed season can make an otherwise enjoyable fall feel miserable, especially when allergy symptoms interfere with sleep, work, school or time outdoors. If your usual allergy routine isn’t cutting it, AFC Gastonia can help evaluate your symptoms and determine the appropriate next steps. Whether you’re dealing with persistent congestion, sinus pressure, coughing or symptoms you simply can’t seem to shake, AFC Gastonia can provide convenient medical evaluation when you need it.