As the seasons change, many people begin to experience symptoms like sneezing and itchy eyes. These symptoms are especially common during the spring, summer, and early fall months. As the weather warms up, trees, grass, and other plants release pollen into the air and when inhaled, pollen can trigger the body’s immune response, leading to seasonal allergies.
According to Gerard Morris, Nurse Practitioner at Advance Community Health urgent care, Advance Axcess, seasonal allergies start weeks before you can visibly see the changes in the climate. He states that “early treatment is the key to successfully navigating pollen season.”
How to tell the Difference between Seasonal Allergies and Cold
Although allergies can feel like a cold, there are a few ways to tell the difference. One way to tell the difference is the color of your mucus. Allergies cause thin, clear mucus where cold often produce thicker, yellow, or green mucus. Some of the other common symptoms of seasonal allergies include:
- Sneezing
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Itchy or watery eyes
- Scratchy throat
- Sinus pressure or headaches
- Fatigue
“They may also trigger asthma symptoms and eczema flares. Cold symptoms usually do not produce itchy and watery eyes and may produce a fever. Seasonal allergies may morph into a sinus infection if not promptly treated,” said Gerard Morris.
While symptoms can feel similar to a cold, allergies typically last longer and don’t come with a fever.
When Should You Seek Care at Urgent Care?
Although many people start by managing their symptoms at home, there are times when professional care becomes necessary. If your symptoms are persistent, worsening, or not improving with over the counter medications, it may be time to visit urgent care.
“Seek care if symptoms persist for 10 days or longer. Due to the runny nose and mucous formation in the nasal cavity, sinus infections are possible. Symptoms of a sinus infection include nasal congestion and runny nose plus facial pain, teeth pain, dull aching headache, mild fever,” said Morris.
In some cases, it can be difficult to tell whether your symptoms are caused by allergies, a cold, or another respiratory illness. At Advance Axcess Urgent Care, our team can help provide clarity and ensure you receive the right diagnosis and treatment.
How Advance Axcess Urgent Care treats Seasonal Allergies
At Advance Axcess Urgent Care, providers work with you to develop a personalized approach that may include medications to control your body’s allergic response, reduce inflammation, and relieve congestion. For some patients, prescription strength treatments may be necessary to achieve lasting relief.
“Early and consistent treatment are keys to treating allergy symptoms. Treatment with oral antihistamines, nasal steroids, and nasal saline are key to survival. Treatment may be necessary for several weeks,” Morris explained. “For those who are known to suffer from seasonal allergies, starting treatment several weeks before visible pollen accumulation may be beneficial or at the first hint of symptoms (itchy eyes, runny nose).”
In addition to medication, our team offers guidance on managing allergies outside of the clinic. Taking a proactive approach can help reduce the intensity of your symptoms and prevent them from disrupting your daily life.
Visit Advance Axcess Urgent Care Today
Seasonal allergies may be common, but that doesn’t mean you have to push through discomfort. When left untreated, symptoms can linger and impact everything from your sleep to your productivity. Getting the right care can make a noticeable difference in how you feel day to day.
Visit Advance Axcess Urgent Care for same day care and let our team help you feel better. With on-site providers and a pharmacy available in the same location, you can get the care you need quickly and conveniently.
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