What Are The Symptoms Of Fall Allergies
- Watery, itchy, or generally irritated eyes
- Runny nose or nasal congestion
- Sneezing
- Aggravated asthma symptoms, including coughing or wheezing
- In severe cases, trouble breathing or anaphylaxis
Its important to note that fall allergy symptoms overlap with the common cold, flu, or COVID-19. One distinguishing factor for allergies: They do not cause a fever.
I Think I Have An Allergy But I’m Not Sure
Generally, if you experience any combination of the typical symptoms — watery eyes, runny nose, sneezing, etc. — you can safely conclude that you’re allergic to something.
If you don’t know what that something is and you want to find out, your primary care doctor can refer you to an allergist. Allergists conduct skin or blood tests to determine what substances you’re allergic to.
The thing is, most people exhibit the same symptoms regardless of the allergen, because allergic rhinitis is a condition with symptoms independent of triggers. So if your allergies aren’t severe, then you’re probably OK to take an over-the-counter allergy pill and not worry about it. If your allergies are severe, though, you might benefit from an allergy test so you can actively avoid your triggers.
The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.
The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.
Worsening Of Allergy Symptoms For 2 Days After Shot
After my shots I almost always experience a slight worsening in allergy symptoms for 2 days after the shot.
In my opinion this should be expected, right? Youre being injected with allergens and your body is reacting. For 2 days after the shot I usually take an extra anti-histamine.
My eczema always gets a little red and improves a few days after shots.
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How Can You Tell If Youre Dealing With Covid
Experts say there are a few major clues. First, one of the hallmark signs of COVID-19 is a fever a symptom that allergies do not cause, says Purvi Parikh, M.D., an allergist and immunologist with the Allergy & Asthma Network.
Allergies are also more likely to lead to itchy eyes and skin reactions , while this isnt as common with COVID-19, Dr. Parikh says. COVID-19 is also much more likely to cause a new lost sense of smell or taste, which research shows is becoming more and more common with the virus.
Your personal history matters, too.Most people know their allergy symptomsthey recognize them and have them seasonally, says Fred Pelzman, M.D., an internist at Weill Cornell Medicine and NewYork-Presbyterian.But we have seen a range of symptoms with COVID-19. Ive seen people who have just had a runny nose, a little cough, and watery eyes.
The confusion is understandable, Dr. Pelzman adds.Nothing is an allergy symptom that couldnt be COVID, he says.If patients have always felt this way with their allergies, thats probably a good indicator its allergies. But if you get a fever, which you dont have with allergies, or never had a cough or shortness of breath with allergies, it could be COVID.
Allergy Shots Side Effects For Adults
Allergy shot side effects or reactions are usually minimal and easy to manage. Because youre being injected with allergens sometimes your body can overreact.
For this reason its important to always carry an Epi-Pen with you to the doctor, in your car, to work/school. Ill explain the side effects and reactions Ive experienced during my 5 years of allergy shots.
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Treating The Common Cold
Your body will get rid of the cold virus over time. Since antibiotics only kill bacteria, they wont work on the viruses that cause colds. Still, there are medications that can help relieve your symptoms while a cold runs its course.
Cold remedies include:
- pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen
Cough syrups and OTC medications arent recommended for children under 4 years old, while nasal sprays arent recommended for children under age 6.
Ask your doctor before taking any OTC cold medication, especially if you also take prescription medications, have any existing health conditions, or are pregnant.
Dont use cold medications for a long period of time. Using them for extended periods can cause side effects such as rebound congestion.
You can also try home treatments to relieve a cold, such as:
- drinking more fluids like water, juice, and herbal tea
- loratadine-pseudoephedrine
Decongestants come in pills and nasal sprays. However, nasal decongestants such as oxymetazoline can make your congestion worse if you use them for more than three days in a row.
Sneezing And Sniffling: How To Tell If It’s Allergies Or A Cold
It can sometimes be hard to tell the difference between allergies and a common cold. Both allergies and cold viruses tend to become widespread at certain times of the year, which is why you may mistake a cold for seasonal allergies.
Allergies and viral infections can cause rhinitis. The word rhinitis means inflammation of the nose. The nose produces fluid called mucus. This fluid is normally thin and clear. It helps to keep dust, debris and allergens out of the lungs. Mucus traps particles like dust and pollen, as well as bacteria and viruses.
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What Causes Respiratory Allergies
If you have allergies, you are not alone. Nearly 50 million other Americans have them, too. In fact, allergies are the fifth leading chronic, or long-term, disease in the United States, and the third most common chronic disease among children under 18-years-old.
Allergic reactions are caused by an over-reactive immune system. Sometimes the body mistakes a harmless substance for a dangerous invader. This results in a release of chemicals from immune cells, which can cause sneezing, itchy, runny nose or eyes, rashes or hives, inflamed eyes, skin, or lungs. In severe allergic reactions, whole body reactions may require immediate medical attention.
Youre Not Consistent With Your Medication
It takes you three months to use up your 30-day supply of OTC allergy meds and you get your allergy shots only when youre feeling crummy. Sound familiar? Compliance is what both Dr. Shah and Dr. Leija cite as the biggest reason their patients cant get ahead of their symptoms.
It takes about two to three days for allergy medicine to kick in, explains Dr. Leija. And you cant just stop when you feel better or when the pollen count in your area is low. Pollen counts vary so much by the weather and the barometric pressure, he explains, so consistently taking your medication on days when numbers are low will prep you for when they surge again.
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Diagnosing Colds And Allergies
You dont need to see your doctor for a cold, but if you do make an appointment, your symptoms will likely be enough for them to confirm your diagnosis.
If your doctor thinks you might have a bacterial infection such as strep throat or pneumonia, you might need other tests such as a throat culture or chest X-ray.
For allergies, you may need to see a primary care doctor, an ear-nose-throat doctor, or an allergist. The doctor will first ask about your symptoms. Severe or life-threatening allergic reactions often require the care of an allergy specialist.
A variety of tests can be used to diagnose allergies. A skin test can be used to determine your allergy triggers. Sometimes primary doctors or allergy specialists may also use blood tests to diagnose allergies depending on your age and other health conditions.
Trees Grasses And Weeds Are Often To Blame
Ragweed, which grows throughout most of the U.S., produces pollen in the fall.
Ah, spring. It’s the time of year when the cold starts to wane, and trees and flowers blossom.
But if you’re one of the many people who suffer from seasonal allergies, those pretty trees and plants may make you feel worse, not better.
That’s because of pollen, a powdery substance made by trees, weeds, and grasses.
Pollen is harmless, but if you have seasonal allergies, your body mistakes the pollen for something dangerous and tries to attack it. This reaction causes symptoms like coughing, a runny or stuffy nose, and itchy, watery eyes. You might feel like you have a cold.
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Can Allergies Make You Feel Like You Have A Bad Cold
Hi All!Guess what, two days no eye twitch! Yay, but now I think Ive got another cold on top of the flu, and for me thats pretty much ruining me. Im wondering however if maybe its allergies?Ive got a blocked, congested nose, sore eyes, sneezing lots, my eyes feel red and itchy but they dont look red. Im tired and have a croaky voice and a scratchy red throat. I feel pretty miserable, to be honest, but I thought allergies just gave you symptoms without actually making you feel sick. Can allergies actually make you feel miserable and how would you know the difference?!
Reactions To Allergy Shots Pictures
Ive included a few of my photos after allergy shots. The first allergy shot picture is the same day and is about 5 hours after the shot.
I believe this is normal and nothing to worry about. Conversely, if there was no reaction at all Id think the shot was too weak.
The second photo is the 2nd day after getting my shot. Notice the redness has significantly decreased. By the 3rd day there is no mark.
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Allergy Shots Effectiveness My Opinion
Are allergy shots effective? A few years ago, prior to starting allergy shots, I was in a horrible place.
I couldnt make it to work, I stopped socializing, and I stopped exercising. I became obsessive about controlling my environment and reducing any stress.
I didnt know what was causing me to feel bad and I didnt know what to do.
Thankfully I was allergy tested.
But that didnt solve the problem. The first allergist I visited didnt help me much.
He only tested me for a couple things and gave me allergy drops there was very little communication or explanation on his part. After that experience, if you were to ask if allergy immunotherapy is effective I would have said no.
Thankfully I was retested for allergies by a reputable allergist.
I received the full spectrum of tests and the process was explained to me. We decided on a way to move forward. I strongly believe that allergy shots are effective.
Over the past few years Ive reduced my allergy symptoms by about 80%. I can breathe through my nose and my eyes are less itchy.
My fatigue is gone. I only need 7 hours of sleep a night and I wake up energized and ready to go. Ive also been able to hold a job.
I suffered from allergies year-round, not just seasonally. I was desperate to find a solution and Ive followed the schedule outlined by my doctor.
Ive also be retested a few times to make sure the allergy shots are working. Guess what? I no longer react to many of the allergens I first tested positive for.
How To Prevent A Cold Flu And Covid
For most people, having a cold, the flu or COVID doesnt require a trip to the emergency room. Most symptoms resolve after some much-needed rest, but that isnt always the case.
To decrease your chances of catching a cold, flu or COVID, remember to wash your hands frequently. Washing with warm, soapy water for at least 20 seconds can help get rid of the germs on your skin.
Avoid contact with people who are sick. And if you become sick, stay home to keep from infecting others.Remember, the best way to prevent the flu and COVID-19 is by getting vaccinated, says
Dr. Martin. The symptoms may be similar and having both viruses at one is possible. This is something youll want to avoid, especially older adults, young children and those with certain medical conditions.
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Is It Fall Allergies
Allergies also have a lot in common with COVID. They share symptoms like a coughing, shortness of breath, a headache, congestion, and fatigue. One difference is that allergies don’t cause a fever and chills, while COVID-19 doesn’t cause itchy, watery eyes.
Another tipoff is if you’ve had these symptoms before. “Typically, allergies are not new. They don’t come out of the blue,” Lypson says. But even if you’ve dealt with fall allergies in the past, assuming they’re the cause of your symptoms could be risky.
If you assume you have allergies, only to test positive for COVID-19 later, “Then you’re in the position of looking back and saying, ‘How many people might I have exposed when I assumed it was allergies?'” Maragakis says. The safest thing to do if you’re at all uncertain about your symptoms is to get a COVID test.
What Are The Symptoms Of A Cold
Cold symptoms come on gradually and are milder than symptoms of the flu. Symptoms commonly include:
- Cough
- Mild fever
- Runny nose
- Sore throat
- Stuffy nose
Cold symptoms typically last for about a week. However, youre contagious during the first few days, so stay home, get plenty of fluids and be sure to rest.
Most colds are caused by a virus, which antibiotics wont treat. Its best to get plenty of rest, fluids and use over-the-counter medicines to help manage symptoms, says Dr. Martin.
If your symptoms last longer than a week, check with your healthcare provider to rule out an allergy or bacterial infection.
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Can A Cold Or Flu Cause Allergies
An allergy is an inflammatory immune response to specific foods or something in the environment, known as an allergen. Colds and flu are caused by viruses or bacteria. Therefore, a cold or flu cannot cause an allergy.
Sometimes, allergies can lead to a sinus infection, which may develop into a fever. Sinus infections are the result of excess mucus and debris getting trapped in the air-filled sinus passages. However, the infection develops due to the bacteria or viruses present rather than the allergens.
Knowing what a person is allergic to can help in treating the allergies. A person can be allergic to several allergens at once. Some of the key steps to reducing allergy symptoms include:
A person with severe allergies may benefit from immunotherapy. This approach involves injecting increasing amounts of allergens in the body to de-sensitize the bodys immune response. A doctor must prescribe these injections.
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“Anybody with symptoms, that’s the most important group of people to test,” Dr. Isaac Ghinai, an epidemic intelligence service officer with the Chicago Department of Public Health, said earlier in the summer. “If you have any symptoms of possible COVID, whether it’s even just a mild cough, you know, any of those kinds of mild symptoms, we would still recommend COVID testing.”
For some people, coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms that clear up in a couple weeks. For others, it may cause no symptoms at all. For some, the virus can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia and death.
Even those who receive the coronavirus vaccine can also still contract the virus and may experience symptoms. Though rare, breakthrough cases have been reported in both Chicago and Illinois.
Most vaccinated people either have no symptoms or exhibit very mild symptoms, according to health officials, and the virus rarely results in hospitalization or death for those individuals.
Some residents who contracted breakthrough infections have said they experienced minor symptoms.
“I started feeling congested, similar to what I would feel like if I had seasonal allergies,” Robert Flinn told NBC Chicago after he contracted coronavirus while fully vaccinated this summer.
But eventually, he said his symptoms grew to developing a fever, fatigue and a headache.
Coronavirus and the common cold share many symptoms.
Allergies can occasionally be met with a loss of taste or smell.
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Preventing And Responding To Allergies Vs Cold Or Flu
Prevention, of course, is the best cure for allergies, cold, and flu. The best way to prevent allergy symptoms is to avoid the things youre allergic to whenever possible. If that isnt possible, consult your physician about the possibility of allergy prescriptions you can take year-round or when your allergy symptoms are at their worst. Or, you can consider getting antigen therapy for allergies.
For flu and virus, the number one thing you can do is wash your hands. Wash them well and wash them often. Also, avoid being around people who are sick and may transmit the cold or flu to you. If you do develop the flu, stay home so that you do not spread it to others.
Staying home and taking care of yourself is ideal if you have one of these conditions. However, if your symptoms last more than 10 days or if they seem unusual or severe, you should come see us here at Houston ENT & Allergy Services. If you are among the high risk-group mentioned above for flu, you should contact us as soon as you begin to experience symptoms.
Bottom Line: If Youre Having Unusual Symptoms Talk To Your Doctor
They can help ID the cause of whats ailing you, recommend testing, and help guide you on the next best steps, whether that includes starting a new allergy medication or isolating at home until youre sure youre in the clear of COVID-19.
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