Indoor & Outdoor Allergy Symptoms

Are itchy eyes, a runny nose, or other allergy symptoms getting you down? Don’t worry - WellNow Urgent Care is here to help. From hay fever to sinus pressure, we’ll cure your worries so you can breathe easy, every season, indoors and out!

What are allergies?

You experience allergy symptoms when your immune system reacts by attacking normally harmless substances. These symptoms can vary from minor to severe or life-threatening. Dr. Terry Buzzard says “Allergies can cause a range of symptoms including a runny nose, sneezing, itching, rashes, swelling, or asthma. Anaphylaxis is a severe reaction that can be life-threatening and should be treated immediately.” Allergy symptoms can arise whether you are indoors or outdoors, depending on the source of your allergies. In addition to common environmental allergies, people also experience allergies to certain foods, medicines, or insect bites or stings.

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 include:

• Red, itchy eyes

• Runny nose

• Sore or scratchy throat

• Sinus pressure
  
  

Indoor Allergies

Indoor allergies can be caused by dust, mold, or pet dander. These allergens can naturally collect around the house. The particles will hide in pillows, mattresses, carpets - just about anywhere. Indoor molds produce spores and usually hide in damp environments. If you suspect you have mold in your home, you may wish to have it professionally removed to prevent future allergic reactions.

Symptoms are similar to outdoor allergies and include:

• Red, itchy eyes

• Runny nose

• Sore or scratchy throat

• Sinus pressure

• Skin irritations (such as hives or rash)
  
  

Should I visit a doctor?

Talk to your doctor if you think that you have an allergy. “Exposure to animals, smoke, pollen, dust, foods, soaps, and mold are just a few of the many sources that cause allergies. Try to take note of anything new that you’ve been exposed to,” says Dr. Buzzard, “Identifying and removing the cause will help prevent allergy symptoms.” If you are experiencing the symptoms listed above, you may be able to get relief with an over the counter antihistamine. However, if you are experiencing any of these symptoms to the point of discomfort, you may need to seek medical attention.

WellNow Urgent Care will provide the remarkable care you need to treat common allergy symptoms. We’re available every season - no appointment needed. Click here to find your nearest clinic. To avoid the line, you can also go online and reserve your time.


Sources:

American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, “Allergies,” https://www.aaaai.org/conditions-and-treatments/allergies

Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, “Allergies,” https://www.aafa.org/page/allergy-symptoms.aspx