Pollen, mold, and other allergens can leave you feeling downright uncomfortable. If you or your family are struggling to enjoy the fall weather because of allergy symptoms, you are certainly not alone. According to the CDC, nearly 1 in 3 adults and over 1 in 4 kids in the US reported having seasonal allergies, eczema, or food allergies. The good news is that there are some simple tips that can help you feel better.
Below, our family medicine specialists in Crown Point, Indiana are going to share some tips on how to manage these seasonal allergies.
Recognize the signs and know your triggers
The first thing you need to do when dealing with seasonal allergies is to know what you are truly dealing with. You might experience symptoms like sneezing, a scratchy throat, itchy or watery eyes, and congestion, all of which can easily be confused with a cold. But unlike a cold that usually goes away in a week, allergies can stick around as long as you are around the allergens triggering your symptoms.
Your family medicine specialist in Crown Point, Indiana can help you identify the specific allergens behind your discomfort. For many people, seasonal allergies are triggered by pollen, mold, and even changes in the weather. If you are not sure what is causing your symptoms, a simple allergy test from a licensed family medicine specialist can give you the answers you need.
Once you know what triggers your allergies, you can take some easy steps to avoid or minimize your exposure to them. For example, pollen is usually at its worst in the morning, so it might be a good idea to plan your outdoor fun for later in the day when the pollen levels have dropped. And if you know a storm is coming, you are going to want to stay inside since rain can stir up mold and other allergens.
Keep your home allergen-free
Your home should keep you safe from seasonal allergens, but pollen and dust always seem to sneak in. If you want to keep those allergens away during high-pollen times, you should keep your windows closed and use air conditioning instead of opening doors and windows for fresh air. Air filters, especially HEPA filters, catch any allergens that might be floating around in your home, so they are definitely worth getting.
You should also keep your floors and surfaces clean since pet hair, pollen, and dust can build up on surfaces. Regularly vacuuming with a HEPA filter vacuum can noticeably improve your indoor air quality. Washing your bedding once a week in hot water can also help remove any allergens that might have settled there.
Lastly, if you have spent any time outside, allergens like pollen can stick to your clothes, hair, and skin. A quick shower and changing into fresh clothes when you get home can keep those allergens from coming inside.
Over-the-counter solutions can help
Many people use over-the-counter meds to manage their seasonal allergies. Antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal sprays can all be effective options to manage mild to moderate symptoms. But with so many types of OTC allergy medications, it can be confusing to know which will be the best for your needs.
For some people, antihistamines work better since they block the body’s response to allergens, while others might need a nasal spray to ease inflammation in their nasal passages. Licensed family medicine specialists in Crown Point, Indiana can help you choose the right medication for your symptoms.
Also keep in mind that if your symptoms are not getting better with over-the-counter medications, your family medicine specialist can suggest other options like prescription medications or even immunotherapy, which builds up your body’s tolerance to allergens over time.
Sometimes what you think are merely seasonal allergies could actually be something more serious, like a sinus infection or asthma. Only a healthcare professional can properly diagnose and treat these conditions, giving you the relief you need.
Looking for an Affordable Family Medicine Specialist in Crown Point, Indiana?
Are your allergies keeping you from enjoying the fall season? If so, and if you’re ready to meet with an affordable family healthcare provider in Crown Point, Indiana, you can find the doctor you trust at 219 Health Network. We have several providers on staff who can offer the specialized care you need. Contact us today at 833-219-0001 to schedule an appointment.