While most people associate congestion with colds and the flu that people tend to get in the winter, or with allergies that are brought on in the spring, some people experience their worst congestion during the summer. A combination of irritants like pollen and mold as well as humidity can cause a variety of symptoms similar to a cold, including nasal congestion.
If you’re suffering from congestion this summer, AFC Urgent Care Linden can help. Our board-certified medical providers can help you determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and provide the necessary treatment. Our clinic accepts walk-in patients and maintains short wait times. Simply walk into the clinic or schedule an appointment online.
Is There a Summer Allergy Season?
When you think of seasonal allergies, you might think of the spring or fall months. While it is true that allergens like pollen can be very common during these times, they can also be common during the summer. In fact, some people experience worse congestion in the summer because they spend more time outdoors.
While most people might be at work or in school during the spring, the summer months are a common time to take trips and vacations. This can greatly impact your risk of a variety of ailments. Not only does extended time outdoors expose you to more allergens, but if you are traveling far away you might travel to a location with different types of irritants that your body isn’t used to.
What Causes Congestion During the Summer
Travel is at an all-time high during the summer months due to school breaks. Traveling can increase the risk of exposing yourself to allergens, but it can also increase your risk of coming into contact with different viruses and bacteria which can cause you to get sick. Common colds caused by viral infections are very common as a result of traveling. Lack of sleep due to travel and stress from exposure to hot climates can also weaken your immune system, leaving you more vulnerable to developing an illness that can cause congestion.
When you are at home there is a smaller limit of places and people you will interact with. Groups of people frequently can build up herd immunity. But when you travel to different locations you are potentially going to be exposed to bacteria and viruses that are foreign to your body. This is why it is common to feel sick a few days into a vacation or after returning home from a vacation.
How to Prevent & Treat Congestion
Congestion in the summer can have many different causes so it is important to consider the underlying cause when trying to treat your congestion. If your symptoms persist longer than a week, they likely are caused by allergies. However, sudden onset congestion that also is accompanied by symptoms such as a cough or fatigue may indicate the presence of an illness.
The best way to address congestion in the summer is to avoid it. Wash your hands frequently while traveling, get plenty of rest, and ensure that you’re eating and drinking enough water. Antihistamines and other medications for allergies can also help address symptoms caused by allergies.
Visit AFC Urgent Care Linden for Same-Day Illness Symptom Treatment in Linden, NJ
If you’re experiencing congestion during the summer months, you’re not alone. Understanding the underlying cause of your symptoms is vital to effectively treating them. At AFC Urgent Care Linden, our board-certified medical providers are trained to identify the symptoms of allergies and common illnesses that lead to congestion and provide the necessary treatment.
Our clinic accepts walk-in patients and is conveniently located for patients in Linden, Elizabeth, Roselle, and Woodbridge, NJ. If you’re in need of rapid congestion relief this summer, simply walk into the clinic. We accept most medical insurance plans and offer affordable care for patients without insurance. Walk in today!
