Seasonal allergies can significantly disrupt your daily life, causing a range of symptoms like sneezing, itching, and congestion. If you suffer from allergies, you may have noticed that your symptoms seem to come and go– fluctuating in intensity throughout the day or depending on your environment. So, why do allergy symptoms behave this way? In this blog, we’ll explore the nature of seasonal allergies, why symptoms can fluctuate, and tips for managing your allergies this spring.
For same-day seasonal allergy relief, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Aurora Havana. Our board-certified medical providers can evaluate your symptoms and recommend the best treatment options. Simply walk-in or plan your visit in advance by pre-registering below.
Understanding Seasonal Allergy Triggers and Symptoms
Allergies occur when your immune system reacts to certain substances known as allergens. Common allergens include pollen, dust mites, pet dander, mold, and grass. When you are exposed to an allergen that triggers your immune system, your body releases histamine chemicals, leading to inflammation and a range of symptoms. For many people, seasonal allergies are triggered by airborne pollen. Pollen levels fluctuate throughout the year, therefore, allergy symptoms may come and go in tandem with changes in pollen counts.
Common signs and symptoms of seasonal allergies include:
- Sneezing
- Cough
- Congestion
- Sore throat
- Itchy & watery eyes
- Post-nasal drip
- Fatigue
Can Allergy Symptoms Fluctuate?
The simple answer is yes, seasonal allergy symptoms can have an “on and off” onset for many individuals. Allergy symptoms can vary in intensity and duration, depending on factors such as allergen exposure, individual sensitivity, and immune system response. While some people experience persistent symptoms during allergy season, others may notice that their symptoms fluctuate throughout the day or week. Several factors can contribute to the fluctuation and allergy symptoms, including:
- Allergen Exposure: Your symptoms may worsen when you are exposed to the allergen that triggers them. This can include peak pollen hours or environments with elevated allergen levels.
- Weather Conditions: Weather changes, such as wind, rain, humidity, and temperature, can impact pollen dispersal and allergen levels, affecting the severity of your symptoms at different points during the day or week.
- Indoor Allergens: While outdoor allergens like pollen are seasonal (most heightened in the spring), indoor allergens such as dust mites, mold, and pet dander can trigger symptoms year-round, leading to persistent or recurrent allergy symptoms.
Tips For Managing Allergy Symptoms
While allergy symptoms may come and go, there are steps you can take to minimize their impact and improve your quality of life. To start, it’s important to focus on avoidance of the allergen that is triggering your symptoms. Whenever possible, avoid exposure to known allergens by staying indoors during high pollen counts, using air purifiers, and keeping your windows closed. Consider taking over-the-counter antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal sprays to get relief from your symptoms. Consult a healthcare professional at an urgent care center for personalized recommendations. If your symptoms are severe, allergy testing and immunotherapy may be recommended to desensitize your immune system to specific allergens and reduce symptom severity over time.
Get Walk-In Allergy Symptom Relief at AFC Urgent Care Aurora Havana
Allergy symptoms can indeed come and go, fluctuating in intensity depending on various factors including allergen exposure, environmental conditions, and individual sensitivity. By understanding the nature of seasonal allergies and following recommended management strategies, you can control your symptoms and enjoy a better spring season. Come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Aurora Havana for same-day allergy relief. Our medical team is here to support your health and wellness seven days a week, no appointment required. If you have any additional questions about seasonal allergy symptoms or treatment, please contact our medical office directly at (303) 343-6000.
