Learn how to identify allergy symptoms, avoid common triggers, and find effective treatments to feel your best this allergy season.
Allergy season can bring more than just a few sneezes. For many people, allergies can cause persistent discomfort and interfere with daily life. Recognizing the symptoms early and knowing how to manage them can make a huge difference in how you feel—and HealthCARE Express is here to help!
Common Symptoms of Allergies
If you've been experiencing frequent sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, and a runny nose, you could be dealing with allergies.
“Allergies often cause symptoms like itchy eyes, watery eyes, sneezing, and a runny nose,” explains Mylene Crouthamel, NP at HealthCARE Express. “However, symptoms like fever, headache, cough, shortness of breath, or wheezing are usually not caused by allergies—and could indicate something more serious that needs medical attention.”
Understanding what is and isn’t related to allergies is the first step toward proper treatment and feeling better faster.
What Triggers Allergies?
Allergic reactions occur when your immune system overreacts to something harmless. “Things that might seem harmless—like pollen, pet dander, heavy perfumes, or even cigarette smoke—can trigger allergy symptoms,” says Crouthamel.
Some of the most common triggers include:
- Pollen from trees, grass, and weeds
- Indoor allergens like dust mites and pet hair
- Strong odors like perfumes or cleaning chemicals
- Environmental irritants such as cigarette smoke
Tips to Reduce Exposure to Allergens
You can often reduce symptoms by taking steps to avoid allergen exposure. Some simple strategies include:
- Wearing a mask while doing yard work, gardening, or outdoor chores to limit pollen inhalation.
- Changing air filters in your home regularly to improve indoor air quality.
- Showering before bedtime to wash allergens off your hair, skin, and clothing—preventing them from transferring to your sheets and pillows.
"Simple daily habits like these can make a big difference in how severe your allergy symptoms become," notes Crouthamel.
How to Treat Allergy Symptoms
When symptoms do occur, there are plenty of ways to find relief:
- Over-the-counter antihistamines such as Claritin (loratadine), Allegra (fexofenadine), or Zyrtec (cetirizine) can help manage mild allergy symptoms.
- Nasal sprays and prescription antihistamine eye drops may also be recommended for more stubborn cases.
"If over-the-counter medications aren't enough, come see us," says Crouthamel. "We can prescribe nasal sprays, stronger allergy medications, and help figure out a personalized plan to ease your symptoms and improve your quality of life."
Don’t Let Allergies Slow You Down
If you're struggling with allergy symptoms, don’t wait it out. Walk in to HealthCARE Express or book an appointment online today. Our team can help you breathe easier, see clearer, and get back to feeling like yourself again.
