Spring is in the air, and we aren’t mad about it! For many of us, warmer weather and sunnier days are an invitation to spend more time outside enjoying the changing seasons.

For others, however, it can be a really frustrating time of year, full of watery eyes, dozens of tissues and headaches. Spring allergies are a common problem for millions of Americans, and allergy season is ramping up already all around us.

Our AFC Urgent Care Boulder team explains more about spring allergies and how to control your symptoms this season, so read on to find some relief.

Why Is Pollen an Allergen?

People can have all sorts of allergies. Depending on the substance and individual person, reactions can range from mild irritation all the way to anaphylaxis, which can be a deadly reaction to an allergen. Thankfully, most people who have spring allergies aren’t at risk of a deadly reaction! If you are allergic to pollen, your body is simply mistaking the substance as a harmful invader to your body and is reacting accordingly.

Once the pollen makes its way into your body, your immune system will kick into high gear to get it out. That’s when your allergy symptoms will start to appear. Your runny nose, itchy or watery eyes and persistent sneezing are all tools your body uses to help rid the pollen from your system. While they might be annoying, these symptoms rarely progress into a medical emergency.

The Most Common Spring Allergies

• Runny nose
• Itchy, watery or red eyes
• Sneezing
• Headache

Will My Allergies Change As I Age?

They certainly can! Our bodies are constantly changing and adapting to our environments, so you might find that your allergies lessen or disappear completely as you get older. However, that is definitely not a guarantee. You could also develop a new allergy or suffer from a stronger reaction later in life as well.

Because seasonal allergies can’t really be prevented or cured, the best way to manage your symptoms is to keep them at bay as much as possible. Change your clothes immediately after coming inside, leave your shoes at the door and consider drying any wet clothes in your laundry room versus outside on the line. Keep your windows closed and run an air purifier to help keep the air inside your home as clean as possible. Finally, be sure to take your allergy medication before you even step foot outside. Doing so helps your body prepare for the pollen before you come into contact with it.

Additional Tips for Managing Allergies

• Avoid going outside on high pollen count days.
• Take your medication before going outside.
• Stay hydrated.
• Change HVAC filter regularly.

Struggling with your allergy symptoms? Come see us at AFC Urgent Care Boulder.