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Goodbye, Cold & Flu Season. Hello, Seasonal Allergies!

Kelli Wall, NP Diseases & Conditions, Primary Care, Urgent Care/Emergency Department

According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, in 2021, roughly 81 million people in the United States were diagnosed with hay fever (seasonal allergic rhinitis). This means approximately 26% of adults (67 million) and 19% of children (14 million) were affected.

The sneezy, itchy, watery-eyed, rashy, runny nose symptoms of seasonal allergies are quite common, so if you’re among those affected, you’re not alone.

What Causes Seasonal Allergies?

Pollen, trees, flowers and grass are a few allergen triggers. Each season, these wonders of nature bloom, releasing allergy pollutants, resulting in utter misery for allergy sufferers.

The pollen count, which monitors the amount of pollen in the air at any given time, provides information about the severity of your symptoms. That’s why you may feel worse in early spring when hazy, yellow-green pollen is prevalent, covering every outdoor surface.

How Early May People Begin to Experience Seasonal Allergies?

Parents may begin noticing symptoms in children as young as one year of age. These symptoms often appear at the same time of year, each year and last for more than two weeks.

Allergies can be lifelong.

In What Way Are Allergy Symptoms Different from Cold Symptoms?

Some symptoms of allergies and the common cold overlap. These include sneezing, congestion, nasal discharge, coughing and fatigue.

Additionally, allergies may cause watery eyes, itchy nose/throat/eyes, rash, hives, post nasal drip, and, rarely, trouble breathing and vomiting.

If you have a cold, but not allergies, you may experience sore throat, mild body aches, mild headache and/or low-grade fever.

Can Seasonal Allergies be Cured?

Seasonal allergy symptoms can be treated when symptoms flare. Seeing an allergist will provide greater insight into specific allergies through allergy testing. Depending on the severity of and amount of unavoidable exposure to the allergen, you may receive regular injections over a period of years to reduce or stop allergy symptoms.

Can Moving to a Different Part of the Country Eliminate Seasonal Allergies?

Relocating to another area may or may not improve or worsen your allergies. If the offending agent (such as ragweed) is found in a different location, then location will not matter, and your allergy will persist. Likewise, if your specific allergen (trees, shrubs, grass) is not in the new locale and you’re not allergic to something else, you should see a noticeable improvement and even a complete elimination of your seasonal allergies.

Are There Natural Remedies for Seasonal Allergies?

If you’re an allergy sufferer, relief from the symptoms is likely a top priority. Here are a few steps you can take:
  1. Close windows at night.
  2. Wash your clothes/body/hair before bed.
  3. Stay indoors during high pollen counts.
  4. Limit exercise to inside activities or times when allergens are low.

What are the Best Over-the-Counter Remedies for Seasonal Allergies?

Popular over-the-counter medications include Allergra, Zyrtec, Claritin, Benadryl, Xyzal and Flonase.

When Should I See a Doctor for Seasonal Allergies?

You are welcome to visit one of our WakeMed primary care, pediatric primary care, urgent care or MyCare 365 providers when seeking relief for seasonal allergies. Prescription medications are available, and we are ready and able to provide you the comprehensive care you need.

Kelli Wall, NP

Kelli Wall is a patient-focused, compassionate, board-certified family nurse practitioner with clinical interests in preventive health and working with young adults to provide them with a strong foundation for lifelong health. She received her bachelor’s degree in nursing from Rush University in Chicago, Illinois, and master’s degree in nursing from University of St. Francis in Joliet, Illinois.

Wall believes in facilitating patient participation in establishing health care goals through compassion, education and understanding. Outside of work, she enjoys celebrating family and friends, outdoor sports, travel, volunteering at Habitat for Humanity and other organizations.

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