If your seasonal allergies seem much worse this year than they were in the past, you are not imagining it. Allergy symptoms can change from one season to the next, even if you have dealt with allergies for years. You might notice more sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes, a runny nose, or an irritating cough that seems difficult to control. So, why are your allergies suddenly worse this season? Changes in pollen levels, weather conditions, air quality, and your individual sensitivity can all contribute to more noticeable symptoms. Sometimes, symptoms that seem like allergies may also be caused by a cold, flu, sinus infection, or other respiratory illness. Understanding what may be behind your symptoms can help you figure out how to manage them and when it may be time to seek medical care.
For same-day seasonal allergy testing and treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care US Route 1-9! We’re conveniently located at 111-117 Spring Street in Elizabeth, NJ and we’re open every day of the week. Simply walk in or plan your visit in advance below.
Why Can Seasonal Allergies Get Worse From One Year to the Next?
Seasonal allergies are triggered when your immune system reacts to substances such as pollen. The amount and type of pollen in the air can vary considerably from year to year. Weather is one major factor. Warmer temperatures can influence when plants release pollen and may extend the length of certain allergy seasons. Windy days can also distribute pollen through the air, potentially increasing exposure. A light or moderate rainfall may temporarily reduce airborne pollen, while storms can sometimes cause pollen particles to break apart and become easier to inhale. This can contribute to a sudden increase in respiratory allergy symptoms for some people.
Your individual sensitivity can also change. Even if you have never had severe seasonal allergies before, you can develop or notice allergy symptoms later in life. Repeated exposure to an allergen may also make symptoms feel more noticeable.
What Can Make Allergy Symptoms Worse?
Pollen is not the only factor that can contribute to worsening allergy symptoms. Your environment and daily habits can also affect how much exposure you get.
- Spending more time outside: Activities such as hiking, running, gardening or simply spending more time outside can increase your exposure to pollen.
- Keeping windows open: Open windows can allow pollen inside your house, where it can settle on furniture, bedding, and other surfaces.
- Poor air quality: Smoke, pollution, and other airborne irritants can aggravate your nose and airways. Even if they are not allergens themselves, they can make existing symptoms feel worse.
- Not treating symptoms early: If you typically experience seasonal allergies, waiting until symptoms become severe before taking your usual allergy medication may make them more difficult to control.
Keeping track of when and where your symptoms are worst can help you identify potential triggers.
How Can You Tell If It’s Allergies or an Illness?
One of the trickiest parts of seasonal allergy season is distinguishing allergies from a cold or another respiratory infection. The symptoms can overlap, but there are some useful differences. Allergies commonly cause sneezing, an itchy nose or throat, watery or itchy eyes, and a clear runny nose. Symptoms may also continue as long as you’re exposed to the allergen and can return repeatedly. A cold may cause congestion, a sore throat, coughing, fatigue, and a runny nose. Unlike allergies, colds are caused by viruses and typically improve within several days to a couple of weeks. If you’re unsure what’s causing your symptoms, a medical provider can help determine whether you’re dealing with allergies or an illness requiring different treatment.
When Should You Visit Urgent Care?
Most seasonal allergies can be managed at home, but some symptoms require medical attention. An urgent care center can evaluate symptoms that are severe, persistent, or difficult to distinguish from an infection. It’s advised to seek medical care if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Difficulty breathing
- Wheezing
- Significant swelling
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Chest pain or pressure
- Symptoms that persist or get worse instead of better
- A high or persistent fever
You should consider an evaluation if your symptoms are lasting longer than expected or are becoming significantly worse. These signs indicate that something other than allergies is contributing to how you feel. An urgent care provider can evaluate your symptoms and help determine whether you’re dealing with allergies, a respiratory infection, sinus problems, or another condition.
Get Walk-In Seasonal Allergy Treatment at AFC Urgent Care US Route 1-9 in Elizabeth, NJ Today
Are your allergies suddenly worse this season? Changes in pollen levels, weather, air quality, and your own sensitivity can all play a role. Even if you have experienced seasonal allergies for years, your symptoms can vary from one season to the next. Reducing pollen exposure, keeping your home clean, and using appropriate allergy treatments can help keep symptoms under control. However, concerning or severe symptoms may point to something beyond seasonal allergies. If you’re struggling with unusually severe or persistent symptoms and aren’t sure whether allergies or an illness is to blame, come visit us at AFC Urgent Care US Route 1-9 in Elizabeth, NJ. Our center can help you find out what is going on and determine the next steps for treatment.
We accept most health insurance plans and offer cost-effective options for those without insurance. For more information on the services we provide, please call us directly at (908) 570-5801 to speak with a member of our team.