AH-CHOO!

Sneezing isn’t supposed to happen during the fall, is it? Well, that’s a common misconception.

Our team at AFC Urgent Care Louisville wants you to know what cause sinus problems during the fall season, as well as various treatment options to try to find relief.

What Causes Sinus Problems in the Fall?

Do you think seasonal allergies only happen during the spring and summer? Think again! In fact, the majority of people who experience allergy symptoms around spring plants will also start to suffer from allergy symptoms in the fall due to ragweed, which is the biggest allergy trigger of the season.

Fall allergies usually tend to appear during late August and can last through November, when ragweed begins to diminish.

Symptoms of Fall Allergies

• Watery, itchy eyes
• Clear, runny mucus
• Lots of sneezing
• Wheezing
• Asthma
• Hives
• Itchy, dry skin
• Upset stomach

What Is the Best Treatment for Fall Allergies?

Unfortunately, the main way to find fall allergy relief is to avoid your allergen altogether—and that’s not likely! However, there are ways you can reduce your symptoms, such as by using nasal sprays and other OTC medications.

In addition, Neti pots and other saline irrigation systems can assist in treating allergy symptoms, especially when it comes to nasal congestion.

Ways to Prevent Fall Allergies

• Keep windows closed and turn on the AC or heat instead.
• Take a shower to rid your hair and skin of allergens after coming indoors for the night.
• Take off shoes when entering the home to avoid tracking allergens indoors.
• Change out your air filters, if you haven’t recently.
• Consider OTC or prescription antihistamines or decongestants, depending on symptoms.

Our goal at AFC Urgent Care Louisville is to provide convenient, affordable health care to Louisville and the surrounding community.