More than 50 million Americans suffer from allergies, and a common one is allergic rhinitis, or seasonal allergies. The body’s immune system overreacts to outdoor stimulants, like mold spores and pollen, and it triggers a response. You’ve probably heard of some of the symptoms, but we’re going to share 6 of the most common seasonal allergy symptoms and how you can treat your allergies.
1. Sneezing
You may notice if you go outside during spring or fall that you start sneezing like crazy. Why do you sneeze so much with seasonal allergies? Well, the pollen or mold that bothers you creates irritation, and your body mistakes these foreign contaminants as germs. Chemicals are released in the body, and your brain tells your body that you need to sneeze to remove the pollen.
2. Post Nasal Drip
Another defense mechanism your body will do to rid itself of the pollen or mold spores is create extra mucus. That’s why you may start to notice a post nasal drip, also known as drainage in the throat.
3. Watery Eyes
Watery eyes are also a common seasonal allergy symptom. Just like with sneezing, your body releases chemicals, and some of them include one called histamines. This particular chemical triggers an immune response that causes your eyes to become watery and possibly itchy.
4. Congestion
If the mucus secretion becomes too much, your sinus passages can actually start to stop up. That’s why you may start to experience congestion with seasonal allergies.
5. Coughing
Another seasonal allergy symptom you may experience is coughing. Since your nasal lining is being aggravated by the pollen or mold, you’ll start to experience post nasal drip. The secretion is running from your nose down to the throat, which can cause a tickle and result in coughing.
6. Runny Nose
Just like with a post nasal drip, your body is creating more mucus to get rid of the foreign bodies it’s seeing as germs. You may experience a runny nose in addition to post nasal drip.
How to Treat Seasonal Allergies
If you experience any of these symptoms, you’re going to want to know how to treat it. If your symptoms go untreated, you may end up with an infection. If you start having seasonal allergy symptoms, you can always take an over-the-counter oral antihistamine. This will stop the histamine reaction in your body. Corticosteroid and Cromolyn sodium nasal sprays are also helpful to remove the pollen and mold from your nasal passages. If you find yourself congested, an oral decongestant will help open up your sinus passages, or you can use a nasal irrigation device. We also recommend the supplements DailyHist capsules for adults and DailyHist Jr. chewable tablets for children. These products include quercetin, a powerful flavonoid, to support healthy histamine levels as well as promote healthy nasal passages, sinus, and respiratory health.
Now you know what to look for when it comes to seasonal allergy symptoms and how to treat them. Need to pick up some over-the-counter medication to help treat your symptoms? Reach out to us for personal recommendations, then stop by our pharmacy in person to pick them up!
