Seasonal Allergies Surge as Fall Approaches in Huntsville

Seasonal Allergies: A Sneezing Season in Huntsville

Huntsville, Ala. – As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisper, many of us find ourselves wrestling with seasonal allergies. Surprise, surprise—it’s not just springtime that brings those pesky sniffles, coughs, and itchy eyes! This fall, a surge in allergy symptoms is knocking on our door, and local doctors are busier than ever.

Understanding the Overlap Between Allergies and Flu

According to physicians, this time of year sees a blossoming of patients complaining about symptoms that could easily be mistaken for the flu instead of the dreaded allergies. Dr. Pamela Angelo, a specialist at Crestwood Family Medicine, explains, “Part of that is because it’s also overlapping with flu season. It’s hard sometimes to differentiate whether I have the flu or allergies.”

Indeed, many of the symptoms are similar. You could experience a runny nose, sore throat, or a nagging cough that just won’t quit. But if you’re running a fever, feeling achy all over, or battling significant fatigue, the chances are high that you might be dealing with the flu instead.

How to Tackle Those Allergies

For many folks, managing seasonal allergies often doesn’t require a trip to the doctor. Most people swear by over-the-counter medications like cetirizine (commonly known as Zyrtec) or Claritin. Dr. Angelo highlights another star player in the world of allergy relief: Flonase. This nasal spray is highly recommended due to its effectiveness and steroid properties.

But there’s more! Don’t overlook the power of a simple saline rinse. Dr. Angelo encourages people to try a nasal device like a Neti pot. “Make sure that you have sterile water. Usually, you boil the water and then cool it down to just warm enough that you can wash out your nose,” she advises. It’s a great way to find some relief from congestion.

When to Seek Medical Attention

But what happens when your trusty over-the-counter remedies stop doing the trick? Or if you start running a fever? Dr. Angelo warns that these could be signs that it’s time to visit your doctor. You might be dealing with something other than just allergies, like the flu or even COVID-19.

“Sometimes, it can lead to postnasal drip,” she cautions. For those of you who don’t know, that’s when the congestion in your nose drains back into your throat, causing you to cough or have a scratchy throat. This pesky situation can sometimes lead to other infections. Yikes!

Who’s at Higher Risk?

Dr. Angelo also highlights that certain groups of people are at a higher risk for developing complications from their allergies. Older adults, children, and folks with breathing problems like asthma or COPD should be particularly careful. They could face more serious infections if their allergies get out of hand.

Conclusion: Finding Relief and Staying Healthy

So, as we embrace this beautiful fall season, it’s crucial to be aware of how our bodies react to the changing weather. If you’re feeling under the weather this fall, remember that you’re not alone—many residents are facing similar challenges. With the right tools, over-the-counter medications, and professional guidance, you can navigate the season while minimizing your discomfort. Stay healthy, Huntsville!