Do you suffer from allergies? Are you sick of the itchy eyes, a runny nose, constant sneezing, coughing, and fatigue that come along with them? Our team of medical professionals at Local MD Urgent Care is trained to help you!
A person who suffers from allergies releases histamines when foreign substances such as various allergens enter their system. Histamines are a chemical which our immune systems naturally create and are released when our body needs help getting rid of a substance, like an allergy. Walk-in or schedule an appointment today to speak with our team about your allergies!
Allergy & Sinus Symptoms
Allergic reactions can result in sneezing, coughing, runny nose, and itching. Most of the time the reactions are bothersome, but in some cases they can be life-threatening and severe. Allergies may be seasonal, such as hay fever, but they may also be associated with chronic conditions such as asthma or sinusitis.
Allergies are diagnosed with skin tests and blood tests. Skin testing is considered the most accurate, but both skin and blood testing can detect a person's sensitivity to common allergens such as pollen, mold, dust mites, medicines, foods, latex, or other substances.
Skin testing is usually preferred but allergy blood tests may be performed if a patient has severe skin rashes, or if a person is taking a medication that cannot be stopped that would interfere with the results of a skin allergy test.
One of the biggest symptoms that can help you determine if you are suffering from allergies or a cold is the color of your mucus from your runny nose. Usually the mucus found in those with a cold is of a yellow color while allergy mucus is clear. Also, with a cold you may experience a fever that would not be present with allergies unless you are developing related complications.
Types of Allergies
Are you unsure of what might be causing your allergic reaction? Determining whether your allergies are caused by indoor or outdoor allergens can mean the difference between avoiding your allergens or suffering for another season.
Seasonal (Outdoor) Allergies
Seasonal, or outdoor, allergies are one of the most common challenges people face. Outdoor allergies are commonly caused by pollen, grass, weeds, or trees. Allergen levels may vary from day to day, depending on weather and time of day. Symptoms of seasonal allergies include:
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Red, itchy eyes
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Runny or stuffy nose
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Sore or scratchy throat
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Headaches
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Sneezing
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Sinus pressure
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Temporary loss of smell
Indoor Allergies
Indoor allergies are caused by allergens such as dust, mold, or pet dander. Particles commonly collect in pillows, carpets, mattresses, carpets, and many other locations if not regularly and thoroughly cleaned. Indoor molds produce spores and usually hide in damp environments. Symptoms are similar to outdoor allergies and include:
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Red, watery eyes
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Runny or stuffy nose
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Sore or scratchy throat
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Sinus pressure
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Skin irritations (such as hives or rash)
Allergy Treatment
At Local MD Urgent Care, we treat all types of allergies. However, if you or a loved one is experiencing an allergic reaction, including any of the following symptoms, please call 911 immediately to have them taken to an emergency room, as they are likely experiencing anaphylaxis:
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Tingling Mouth
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Swelling of Lips, Tongue, Face, or Throat
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Chest Tightness, Wheezing, Coughing, or Shortness of Breath
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Nausea and Vomiting
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Sneezing
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Runny, Stuffy Nose
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Itchy, Watery Eyes
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Rashes or Itchy Skin
If you are not currently experiencing symptoms, or they are not severe, our medical professionals may treat allergies in the following manner:
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Medications: For those with severe allergies who could potentially have an anaphylactic reaction, an epinephrine auto-injector is prescribed.
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Nasal Rinse: For those with airborne allergies, rinsing with a saline solution can help keep nasal passages clear of the offending allergen.
Allergy At Home Remedies
Although allergies generally cannot be cured, there are a number of ways to treat symptoms at home or avoid allergic reactions altogether! Try the following steps at home to prevent or lessen your allergy symptoms:
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Prevent and/or control pet dander as needed
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Use air conditioning instead of opening windows
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Use a HEPA certified vacuum filter
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Wash your bedding at least every two weeks
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Use microfiber cleaning cloths in your home
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Use an air purifier or air filter
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Vacuum common areas once or twice per week
Please note, with your optimal care in mind, if your injury is severe, the Local MD team may refer you to a local emergency room.