Many people see the start of spring as a welcome change from the cold, dry winter weather, but with the warmth and springtime breeze comes airborne pollen and mould spores, which can wreak havoc for allergy sufferers. Allergens - like pollen, dust and mould - send the body’s immune system into overdrive, leaving allergy sufferers feeling stuffy, blocked up, congested and uncomfortable.
Knowing that the allergies are coming is one thing, but how do allergy sufferers actually deal with the allergies when they hit? Knowing the allergy, cause, symptoms and treatments are a sure-fire way to beat them and keep the itchy eyes, sore throat and runny nose at bay. Here’s a look at common symptoms, causes and treatments of that nasty spring season allergy.
Symptoms
Allergy symptoms are “very similar to a cold or flu”, according to Medical News Today. While they can vary from person to person, the most common symptoms include:
- Running or stuffy nose
- Sneezing
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath
- Dry cough
- Rash
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Sinus pain
- Earache
- Fever
- Itchy, red eyes
Causes
Medline Plus describes an allergy as a “reaction by your immune system to something that does not bother most other people”. The causes are often innocent substances such as dust mites, mould and pollen, which are known to increase in number thanks to a spike in temperatures, while wind also carries the allergens into your home or workspace.
Treatments
A third of South Africans, according to Allergy Foundation South Africa, will suffer from some allergic disease during their life. Unfortunately, there isn’t too much one can do about allergies, because if you are allergic to something, you will always be triggered by that allergen.
For this reason, treatment is normally done per symptom. For example, if your eyes are itchy you would use anti-allergy eye drops or if your chest is tight, an asthma pump or ventilator can relieve that discomfort. Where you display sensitivity to certain substances, your best option is to avoid the triggers as much as possible.
Do you suffer from allergies? Have you got an allergy kit with over-the-counter medicines, a box of tissues, eye drops or an asthma pump? As a bsmart member you can get cashback on your purchases (excluding prescription medicine) when you pay using your bsmart card. To find the closest pharmacy in your area, click here.
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Disclaimer: bsmart does not provide medical advice. The above article is for information purposes only. Please consult a suitable and qualified medical professional if you require specific medical advice.