How many times have you blown your nose this morning or swiped at your watery eyes? It’s allergy season in the Louisville area, and many of us are happy to see the warmer weather return while also dreading the days when the pollen count is high.

Spring allergies can be really frustrating, and they can impact people for decades! Even if you have seasonal allergies, you deserve to spend just as much time outside as everyone else who doesn’t suffer.

Our AFC Urgent Care Louisville team explains more about seasonal allergies and how to manage your symptoms better below.

What Are Seasonal Allergies?

The concept of allergies is pretty consistent across the board when it comes to different allergens. If you are allergic to something, your body is identifying that substance as harmful or as an invader to your system, and the symptoms you are experiencing are your body’s way to remove the substance from your body as quickly as possible.

If you have seasonal allergies, chances are that your body reacts to pollen this way. Once your body has decided there is a substance present that it doesn’t like, it will launch its immune response. That is why your nose will start to run, your eyes will get itchy or watery and you will start to sneeze. Even though your body may be mistaken, it is still trying to protect you!

Symptoms of Spring Allergies

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

Are Allergy Symptoms Less Intense Some Years?

Yes! If you had a particularly difficult year last year, you aren’t alone. Many people experiencing stronger symptoms as the pollen counts were particularly stubborn. Every spring season is different, and one year could be mildly pleasant, while the next could be rough. Just keep in mind that if your symptoms are OK this year, that might not necessarily mean that your allergies are fading away.

Some people can grow out of allergies or experience diminished symptoms as they get older, but it is not a guarantee. The best way to manage allergies is to manage the symptoms. Keep your windows closed during the day, change your clothes as soon as you get home or after being outside and take your allergy medication before you even step foot out the door.

Managing Allergies This Season

• Avoid going outside on high pollen count days.
• Run an air purifier.
• Stay hydrated.
• Give outdoor yard work tasks to someone else.

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