The winter season is coming to an end and it looks like spring is coming early this year. We’re sure most of you are probably realizing this, but because of the warm winter we had this year, it potentially means we’re going to have a bad spring allergy season. 

Why? Because of the sporadic temperatures we’ve had these past few months, also known as the “priming effect”, our noses and eyes are going to be hypersensitive to pollen and other allergens. 

As this 2023 spring is likely to bring on more sneezing, congestion, runny noses and other bothersome symptoms, some of you may be concerned or confused with other illnesses like COVID-19. Which is STILL HERE. “Is it allergies or is it COVID-19?” That’s one of the questions that will once again be asked this spring. AFC Urgent Care Rocky Hill has got you covered. Our guide will help you enjoy the warmer weather,  COVID and allergy free. 

Keep an eye out for high pollen counts this spring

Pollen is an airborne allergen that can affect our health. Pollen grains are tiny “seeds” dispersed from flowering plants, trees, grass, and weeds. The amount and type of pollen in the air depends on the season and geographic region. Pollen exposure can trigger various allergic reactions, including symptoms of hay fever. Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, occurs when allergens like pollen enter your body and your immune system mistakenly identifies them as a threat.

People with respiratory illnesses like asthma may be more sensitive to pollen. Exposure to pollen has been linked to asthma attacks and increases in hospital admissions for respiratory illness.

How can I reduce allergy triggers? 

Here are some tips in reducing the unwanted allergy triggers.

• Stay indoors on dry, windy days. The best time to go outside is after a good rain, which helps clear pollen from the air.
• Avoid lawn mowing, weed pulling and other gardening chores that stir up allergies.
• Remove clothes you've worn outside and shower to rinse pollen from your skin and hair.
• Don't hang laundry outside — pollen can stick to sheets and towels.
• Wear a face mask if you do outside chores.
• Carry your INHALER! Spring allergies may cause asthma flare ups. 

If you want to take extra precaution, you may want to check your tv or the internet for the pollen levels in New England. Checking this on a daily basis can help you take an extra step towards fighting the spring allergies this season.

Let’s rule out COVID-19 by getting tested at AFC Urgent Care Rocky Hill

It’s better to be on the safe side when it comes to differentiating spring allergies and COVID- 19 symptoms. If you’re sneezing, have a runny nose, and have watery eyes, then you most likely have spring allergies. But, getting tested for COVID-19 doesn’t hurt either. Afterall, there is a new variant circulating around Connecticut these days.

Not only will you be able to rule out the possibility of having COVID-19, but you’ll be able to focus on taking care of the spring allergies if it turns out to be just allergies. Lastly, if you need asthma relief because your allergies are causing you to have flare ups, we can help treat you!

AFC Urgent Care Rocky Hill is here to attend you 7 days a week. We provide COVID-19 Antigen tests, as well as PCR tests. Let us help you rule out COVID-19 this spring season. Appointments are welcomed and we take walk-ins as well. We are here for you.