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Understanding Seasonal Allergies: When to See Your Family Medicine Provider

Obstetricians & Gynecologists, PC Blog Understanding Seasonal Allergies: When to See Your Family Medicine Provider
Understanding Seasonal Allergies: When to See Your Family Medicine Provider

Sneezing, a runny nose, and itchy eyes can make seasonal allergies hard to ignore. 

While you can find over-the-counter (OTC) medications that sometimes help, your allergy symptoms may worsen and disrupt daily life. In some cases, your symptoms may seem like allergies, but they’re signs that you might have other concerning conditions such as asthma or a sinus infection.

At Obstetricians & Gynecologists, PC, in Hastings and Grand Island, Nebraska, our team includes primary care specialists who help patients manage various health issues — including seasonal allergies. 

Here’s how to recognize the difference between mild allergy symptoms and those that may require medical attention.

What are seasonal allergies?

Seasonal allergies, also known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis, occur when your immune system overreacts to airborne allergens such as pollen, ragweed, or mold spores. These allergens tend to peak during certain times of the year, such as tree and grass pollen in the spring and mold spores in the fall. 

When you inhale, these allergens get trapped in your nasal cavity, causing inflammation in your nose, eyes, and airways, leading to a variety of uncomfortable symptoms. For some people, allergies can trigger or worsen asthma symptoms. 

Symptoms of seasonal allergies

Seasonal allergy symptoms vary in type and severity. Common complaints include:

These symptoms can disrupt sleep and leave you feeling tired all day, affecting your concentration and productivity. They may also make it difficult to enjoy outdoor activities and can affect your overall quality of life.

You can manage symptoms with OTC antihistamines, decongestants, or allergy medications. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, you may need to seek other treatment.

When to see your family medicine provider

You can manage seasonal allergies at home, but should see your family medicine provider when symptoms worsen or your usual treatments no longer work.

Make an appointment with our primary care team if you experience:

It’s also a good idea to see your doctor if you’re unsure whether your symptoms are due to allergies, a cold, or something else. An accurate diagnosis is the first step toward getting the right treatment.

During your visit, we evaluate your symptoms and, if needed, order allergy testing to identify your specific triggers.

Medical treatments for seasonal allergies

Treatment for seasonal allergies focuses on reducing symptoms, improving quality of life, and preventing complications. 

Depending on your symptoms and medical history, treatment may include:

We can also provide you with tips to minimize allergen exposure at home, at work, and during outdoor activities.

Seasonal allergies are common, but that doesn’t mean you have to suffer through your symptoms. If allergy symptoms affect your quality of life, professional treatment can help you get long-term relief and reduce your risk of complications. 

To get the expert help you need, contact Obstetricians & Gynecologists, PC, today.

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