Do you experience seasonal illness symptoms year after year when spring finally arrives? While the spring season brings about many opportunities to get outside and enjoy the warmer weather, it’s also a time when various illnesses tend to surface. With the weather changes, people can experience allergies, colds and other springtime-related illnesses. This blog will explore how to recognize and treat common illnesses during this time of year and when to seek medical attention.
For same-day general illness treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care North Bergen. Our medical team specializes in immediate and preventive care so you can get back to doing the things you love. Simply walk-in today!
Spring Allergies
Allergies are the most common springtime illness. They occur when the immune system overreacts to a substance in the environment, like pollen, mold, grass, or dust. The symptoms of allergies can include sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes and congestion. If you have allergies, it’s a good idea to limit your exposure to the allergen that is causing your symptoms. Additionally, try staying inside on days when pollen counts are high. Over-the-counter antihistamines and decongestants work to alleviate symptoms. It’s important to have your symptoms diagnosed by a medical professional, as allergies can often be mistaken for something more serious, like an infection.
Hay Fever
Hay fever is a type of allergy that specifically targets the nose and eyes. Hay fever symptoms include sneezing, congestion, runny nose, and itchy and watery eyes. In addition to avoiding your exposure to allergens, you can also use medication and nasal sprays to reduce symptoms. However, if your symptoms are severe, seek medical attention. A provider can prescribe medication that will be effective at managing hay fever symptoms.
Sinusitis
Sinusitis, or a sinus infection, is a condition that occurs when the sinuses have become inflamed or infected. Sinus infections cause a wide range of uncomfortable symptoms, including headache, facial pain, runny nose, and congestion. If you’ve been infected with sinusitis, you can take over-the-counter decongestants and pain relievers to alleviate your symptoms. You can also try using nasal saline sprays to clear your sinuses. If your symptoms persist for more than a week, visit a healthcare professional for treatment.
Common Cold & The Flu
While you may be thinking the common cold and the flu are winter-related illnesses, they can actually still affect you into the spring. Colds are viral infections that occur at any time of the year. The symptoms include sneezing, coughing, sore throat, congestion and a runny nose. If you have a cold, make sure to get plenty of rest and drink lots of fluids. The flu is a more severe viral infection that causes fever, chills, body aches, and fatigue. If you have the flu, also make sure to rest and stay hydrated. You should avoid close contact with other people to prevent spreading the virus. If your symptoms are severe, or persist for over a week, seek treatment from a healthcare provider.
Visit AFC Urgent Care North Bergen for Illness Treatment
While springtime illnesses can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms, they are generally treatable with the right supportive care. By recognizing the symptoms of these illnesses and taking steps to prevent exposure to certain triggers, you can alleviate your symptoms and recover quickly. AFC Urgent Care North Bergen specializes in treating all of the conditions listed above. We are open seven days a week and accept all walk-in patients. If you have any additional questions, please contact us directly at (201) 588-1300.
