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What are seasonal allergies?
Seasonal allergies occur when your immune system overreacts to substances such as tree, weed, or grass pollen. You may only have symptoms at certain times of the year. Symptoms can be mild or severe.
What are the symptoms of seasonal allergies?
Symptoms of seasonal allergies include:
- Itchy, watery eyes.
- Sneezing.
- Runny, stuffy, or itchy nose.
- Headache and fatigue.
- Dark circles under the eyes ("allergic shiners").
- Drainage from the nose down the back of the throat (postnasal drip).
- Coughing or the need to clear the throat of drainage.
Seasonal allergies occur at the same time of the year every year if you continue to live in the same part of the country.
How are seasonal allergies diagnosed?
Your doctor may be able to diagnose seasonal allergies based on your symptoms and health history. They may do a physical exam. Sometimes a skin test is done to confirm specific allergens.
How can you care for yourself when you have seasonal allergies?
- Be safe with medicines. Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor if you think you are having a problem with your medicine.
- Stay inside when pollen counts are high, if you can. Your local weather may report pollen counts. They are also available online.
- During your allergy season, keep windows closed. If possible, use air-conditioning to filter allergens out. Change or clean all filters regularly.
- Take a shower and change your clothes after you have been outside.
Seasonal allergies: When to call
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
- You have new or worse symptoms.
- Your symptoms are interfering with your daily activities, sleep, school, or work.
- You have questions about medicines or allergy testing.
- You do not get better as expected.
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The content above contains general health information provided by Healthwise, Incorporated, and reviewed by its medical experts. This content should not replace the advice of your healthcare provider. Not all treatments or services described are offered as services by us. For recommended treatments, please consult your healthcare provider.