How to control your seasonal allergies

It’s that time of year when seasonal allergies are kicking in. Find out how our doctors can diagnose your allergies and help you control them.

Symptoms of seasonal allergies

Most Common: sneezing, stuffy or runny nose, itchy or teary eyes

Less common symptoms: post nasal drip, cough, sore or itchy throat, itchy ears, headache, hives, irritability, fatigue

Causes for seasonal allergies

Seasonal allergies are typically caused by environmental allergens such as pollen, grasses, weeds, or mold spores. When people with seasonal allergies breathe in the allergens their immune system sees it as a threat which causes the above symptoms.

How we diagnose allergies

Our doctors will take a thorough history of your health and walk you through a self-directed exam to decide if your symptoms are more related to allergies or if there is another cause.

Our doctors can distinguish the symptoms by timing of year and how often you experience the symptoms.

How we can help treat your seasonal allergies

Our doctors can help recommend both over the counter and prescription medications such as antihistamines, decongestants, inhalers, or eye drops. They can also help decide if a more aggressive allergy treatment is necessary and when you should be seen for allergy testing.

Natural remedies to help with seasonal allergies

There are also natural remedies you can try at home such as:

• Nasal rinses
• Essential Oils — peppermint, eucalyptus, lemon, lavender
• Vitamin C
• Dehumidifiers
• Changing home filters regularly
• Keeping windows closed

Reposted with permission from Doctor On Demand. To read the article on Doctor On Demand, click here.  

Non-Medicare UPREHS members can see a healthcare provider through Doctor On Demand for just a $10 copay.  To enroll, visit Doctor On Demand.