Spring and summer are a great time of year to spend more time outdoors. However, that can come with some downsides if you have seasonal allergies. Seasonal allergies are commonly caused by pollen and specific plants like ragweed. Allergies can cause a variety of symptoms including coughing. However, coughing as a symptom is linked to many different illnesses and ailments. It is important to know the difference between symptoms and to know when to seek medical advice, treatment, or help. In this blog, we’ll explore how to identify an allergy-related cough and when it might be necessary to seek medical attention.
For same-day seasonal care, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Cedar Grove. Our urgent care center has covered all year long for your seasonal care needs. Appointments are not required, simply walk-in during operating hours.
Understanding Allergy-Related Coughs
Seasonal allergies can indeed cause a cough. This can be caused through postnasal drip, an increased mucus production that drips down the throat which triggers a cough reflex. Allergies can also irritate the lining of the throat directly, causing inflammation and a resulting cough. Additionally, some individuals with underlying conditions like asthma may experience worsened symptoms during allergy season, including coughing.
There are some misconceptions about the types of coughing you might experience with seasonal allergies. You might hear someone say that dry coughs are linked to allergies while wet coughs are linked to illnesses like colds and flu. This isn’t entirely true. Seasonal allergies can cause both dry and wet coughs. If you have asthma that is linked to seasonal allergies, you might experience a dry cough. On the other hand, seasonal allergies can cause inflammation in your airways which leads to the production of mucus. This can cause a wet cough.
How Can You Tell The Difference Between Allergies & Colds?
There is a common refrain that you will hear throughout the spring and summer which is “it’s just allergies.” This is because allergies and colds seem very similar in terms of symptoms. And of course, we would all prefer to have allergies over a cold because allergies are not contagious so there is no risk of getting others sick. But, how do you actually know the difference? The best way to be sure if you have a viral/bacterial infection or simple allergies is to get a quick test. Many medical practices and urgent care centers provide respiratory disease testing that can confirm if you have any harmful bacteria in your airways.
In terms of your symptoms, there are specific symptoms to look out for. Fevers tend to coincide with infection and aren’t part of seasonal allergy symptoms. Itchy and watery eyes are linked to the body’s allergic reaction and aren’t usually symptoms of a cold or flu.
When Should I See A Doctor About My Symptoms?
There are many reasons to see a doctor or go to urgent care. First and foremost, if you aren’t 100% sure what you are experiencing, a quick medical visit can get you tested. Beyond that, if you are experiencing symptoms that are disrupting your daily life or are worsening, a medical visit can provide diagnosis and treatment options that can help you recover more quickly. It’s always best to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health and seek professional medical care when necessary.
Get Walk-In Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Cedar Grove
Seasonal allergies can certainly cause a cough, primarily due to postnasal drip, throat irritation, and reactions that affect the respiratory system. Understanding this connection is important for effective management and relief of symptoms. If your cough persists or is severe, come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Cedar Grove for walk-in care. Our healthcare professionals are here to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment. Stay proactive in managing your allergies to enjoy a healthier, more comfortable allergy season. We accept most health insurance plans and offer low-cost options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about allergy treatment, or other services we provide, please contact us directly at (973) 239-2300.
