While warmer seasons bring pleasant temperatures and blooming flowers, they can also cause seasonal allergies to flare up. While most people find their symptoms easy to manage, you might have questions about alleviating your discomfort. To help you recognize the signs of a reaction and find relief, the allergy care experts at Patients First Medical Clinic in Anchorage, AK, offer the following guide to common symptoms and treatments.

Nasal Symptoms

Sinus trouble is one of the first signs of seasonal allergies. These symptoms include congestion, runny nose, post-nasal drip, loss of smell, and sneezing. Due to post-nasal drip, you might also experience a sore throat. Saline solution is a good option for keeping these symptoms at bay, but if they persist, talk to your allergy care doctor about a over the counter or prescription nasal steroid spray to reduce inflammation in the nasal passages.

Face & Head Pain

When your sinuses get congested, you might feel pressure and pain in the face, head, and ears. You may also have difficulty hearing as a result. To treat this congestion, use a saline spray several times per day or hold a warm compress to your face. These simple steps will relieve many seasonal allergy symptoms; however, allergy care experts suggest taking an antihistamine and decongestant combination medication if the situation gets worse.

Eye Discomfort

When seasonal allergies strike, you may experience an itchy, burning sensation in your eyes. They might also look red, watery, and puffy. These symptoms occur when the immune system creates antibodies that make the eyes release histamines, the chemicals that help your body fight against allergens, from pollen to pet dander. These symptoms are a natural defense mechanism, but in allergy patients this response is excessive and uncomfortable. To alleviate eye problems, use over-the-counter eye drops and/or antihistamines such as cetirizine or talk to your doctor about a prescription-strength formula.

COUGH

When cough becomes a problem, it could represent asthma or an infectious process, such as pneumonia or bronchitis. We recommend you be examined and evaluated by a medical clinic or provider.

When you need fast, responsive health care, reach out to the professionals at Patients First Medical Clinic. Whether you’re seeking allergy care or have other health concerns, this community health clinic offers medical services for the entire family. Visit them online for more information, or call (907) 333-7425 to request an appointment.