Do you sneeze constantly when flowers bloom? Are you reaching for tissues all day long because of itchy eyes and a runny nose? If so, you might be part of the growing number of people who suffer from seasonal allergies. While these allergies are common, they can greatly impact your life. But do not worry—a primary care physician can help you manage them effectively.
Let us explore how you can use the expertise of a primary care physician to deal with seasonal allergies. We will cover all the essential information you need, from identifying symptoms to managing them.
Understanding Seasonal Allergies
Seasonal allergies, also known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis, occur when your immune system reacts to otherwise harmless substances (called allergens) like pollen, mold, or dust mites. These allergens are more prevalent during certain times of the year, such as spring and fall.
When you breathe in these substances, your body releases chemicals like histamines, causing sneezing, itching, and other symptoms. Symptoms of seasonal allergies or hay fever can vary from person to person and often include:
- Sneezing
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Itchy eyes, nose, or throat
- Watery eyes
- Coughing
Knowing these symptoms is the first step in managing allergies. You do not have to endure them without help. A primary care physician or family doctor near you can provide guidance and relief.
The Role of a Primary Care Physician
A primary care physician is your first contact for healthcare needs, including the management of seasonal allergies. They are trained to address a wide range of health issues, including asthma and allergies.
By collaborating with a primary care doctor, you gain access to their expertise and resources to tackle your allergies head-on. If needed, your primary care physician can also refer you to an allergy specialist.
Your primary care physician will start by conducting a thorough assessment of your symptoms and allergy testing. Allergy testing is essential to identify the specific allergens that trigger your symptoms.
They may also ask about your medical history, family history of allergies, and environmental factors. This assessment and testing help them diagnose the root cause of your allergies accurately.
Once your primary care physician identifies the allergens causing your symptoms through allergy testing, they will create a personalized plan for allergy management. This plan often includes several strategies:
Avoidance
Your primary care physician will guide you on how to limit exposure to allergens. This could include staying indoors on days when pollen levels are high or using air purifiers in your home to keep the air clean.
Avoiding allergens is an important step in managing seasonal allergy symptoms.
Medications
Depending on the severity of your allergy symptoms, your primary care physician may prescribe a variety of medications to help manage and alleviate discomfort.
Antihistamines
These medications work by blocking the action of histamine, a substance in the body (released by mast cells) that causes allergy symptoms. By doing so, they help reduce symptoms like sneezing, itching, and runny nose.
Decongestants
Decongestants are often used to relieve nasal congestion by shrinking swollen nasal tissues and blood vessels, making it easier to breathe.
Nasal Sprays
Nasal sprays, whether steroid-based or saline, can be prescribed to target specific nasal symptoms. These sprays help reduce inflammation directly in the nasal passages, providing relief from congestion and irritation.
Together, these medications aim to reduce swelling, control symptoms, and improve overall comfort.
Immunotherapy
In some instances, especially when medications are not sufficient or for long-term management, your primary care physician might recommend immunotherapy. This treatment includes options like allergy shots (subcutaneous immunotherapy) or sublingual tablets.
Allergy Shots
Allergy shots involve regular injections of small amounts of allergens over several months or years, with the goal of gradually desensitizing your immune system to these substances.
This approach helps to decrease the frequency and severity of seasonal allergic reactions over time.
Sublingual Immunotherapy
Similarly, sublingual immunotherapy involves placing a tablet containing specific allergens under the tongue, allowing for absorption and desensitization without injections.
Lifestyle Modifications
Your primary care physician might also recommend changes to your lifestyle to support your health and prevent seasonal allergies. This could involve changing your diet, exercising regularly, or using stress management techniques to help you feel your best while managing allergies.
Monitoring and Adjustments
Allergy management is an ongoing process. Your primary care physician will monitor your progress and make adjustments to your gallery treatment plan as needed. Regular check-ups ensure you are receiving the best care possible.
If your allergies are severe or difficult to manage, your primary care physician may recommend additional tests or consultations with specialists.
Primary Care Physician Near Me at Intercoastal Medical Group
If you are ready to take control of your seasonal allergies and breathe easier, the primary care physicians and our allergy specialist, Dr. Matthew Aresery, at Intercoastal Medical Group, are here to help. Dr. Aresery specializes in treating atopic dermatitis (eczema), urticarial (hives), frequent colds/bronchitis, food allergy, bee sting (venom) allergy, and more.
Dr. Aresery provides comprehensive allergy and asthma care tailored to the individual needs of each patient. With state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and a focus on personalized treatment plans, we ensure you receive the highest quality care possible.
To discuss your symptoms and explore the best treatment options available for you, schedule a consultation with our primary care physician or allergy specialist, Dr. Matthew Aresery, using our appointment request form.
We look forward to serving you!
