How to Ease Your Allergy Symptoms – Advice From the Doctors at South Tampa Immediate Care in Tampa, FL

How To Ease Allergy SymptomsIf you’re bothered by seasonal allergies, you’re far from alone. For at least three months out of every year, an estimated 40 million Americans deal with watery eyes, constant sneezing, and a runny nose caused by “hay fever.”

What Causes Seasonal Allergies?

An allergy occurs when your body’s immune system overreacts to a normally harmless substance—one that doesn’t bother most other people. In the springtime, pollen is the most likely culprit. Many people experience seasonal allergies in the Tampa, Florida, area, which has a warm, humid climate and high pollen counts that can wreak havoc on an overactive immune system. Airborne pollen from oaks, junipers, and nettles generally reaches peak levels between mid-February and mid-April. And because the wind can carry pollen for great distances, the source of your misery might not even be close by.

The best way to manage your seasonal allergies is to find out for sure what is causing them. Once you consult with a medical provider and receive an accurate diagnosis, you’ll have a better idea of what your triggers are and can prepare to confront them. What’s more, the COVID-19 pandemic has created an additional challenge for seasonal allergy sufferers. Because some of the symptoms overlap, it’s important to get to the bottom of whatever is ailing you with the help of a doctor.

Allergy Prevention Strategies

Of course, the best way to ease seasonal allergies is to prevent them from developing in the first place. Here are some steps you can take to help keep your symptoms at bay:

  • If your doctor prescribes an allergy medication, be sure to start using it two to four weeks before the spring bloom is expected.
  • Use your allergy medication consistently as instructed—don’t wait until your eyes are watering and your nose is running.
  • Whenever possible, avoid exposing yourself to known allergens. In other words, don’t kick off your spring break with a picnic under a big oak tree in a park.
  • Don’t bring pollen into your home. After spending time outdoors, shower and wash your clothing immediately. Also, keep in mind that pets can carry pollen in their fur.
  • Keep your windows closed and use your air conditioner. Even though you might be tempted to enjoy a refreshing spring breeze, don’t—in addition to warm air, you’ll be basking in pollen.
  • Launder your sheets and bedding in hot water at least once a week.

If you’re doing your best to control your allergies and they are still interfering with your daily routine, seek medical attention right away. When left untreated, allergies can sometimes cause complications, such as asthma and respiratory infections.

If you have questions about seasonal allergies, please contact or visit the South Tampa Immediate Care walk-in clinic in Tampa, FL. For more advice on how to keep yourself and your family healthy, be sure to review our online series of health articles.