Do you have a cold … or is it seasonal allergies?

SALT LAKE CITY — Millions of Americans suffer from seasonal allergies — about one in five, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. However, because of changing climates and environments, that ratio could be much higher.

The symptoms of seasonal allergies often mimic those of a cold. Many people refuse to think they have allergies, simply believing they catch a cold every spring. One of the reasons for this might be because they've never before had allergies. The truth is, a person can develop allergies at any stage in life and an allergy can go away at any time.

Seasonal allergy symptoms occur when a person's immune system overreacts to an outdoor allergen such as pollen, mold, perfume, etc. The most common culprits are wind-pollinated plants, such as trees, grasses and weeds.

A runny nose is usually considered the first sign of seasonal allergies. Other common symptoms include sneezing, nasal congestion, watery eyes, itchy throat, etc.

While seasonal allergies are less common in the winter, the colder months of the year can still be bothersome for some people.

“Because different plants emit their respective pollens at different times of the year, symptoms of hay fever may affect an individual year-round, depending on their immune system and where they live,” according a Drugs.com article written by Michael Kerr and edited by Dr. George Krucik.

If winter is mild — as it was in Utah this year — spring allergies come sooner and with increased intensity of symptoms. Just walking outside or opening a window could cause a reaction.

In the spring and summer, trees and grass are responsible for most allergies. In Utah, cottonwood trees cause many allergy symptoms — as do alfalfa (hence the term “hay fever”), sage brush and ryegrass pollens.

Ragweed is the biggest culprit for fall allergy symptoms — which can be especially severe. You don’t have to live near ragweed to experience a reaction.

“Even if it doesn't grow where you live, it can still travel for hundreds of miles on the wind,” according to WebMD. “For some people who are allergic to ragweed, foods like bananas, melon, zucchini, and certain other fruits and vegetables can also cause symptoms.”

In the winter, most outdoor allergens lie dormant. Still, as people spend more time inside, Kerr says those allergens can be replaced by indoor ones such as mold, pet dander and dust mites.

Luckily, inside allergens are easier to remove from the environment. Kerr suggests the following:

• Wash bedding at least once a week in very hot water
• Use a dehumidifier
• Get rid of carpets and all upholstered furniture
• Remove stuffed toys from children's bedrooms
• Cover bedding and pillows with allergen-proof covers
• Fix any water leaks and clean up water damage that may produce mold
• Clean moldy surfaces and any places mold may form, including in humidifiers, swamp coolers and air conditioners

Ask Nurse Suzy

Do you have a question for Nurse Suzy, or maybe a topic you'd like her opinion on? Email her at nursesuzyksl@gmail.com.

Diagnosis and treatment of seasonal allergies is usually easier than that of other allergies. If symptoms only occur at certain times of the year, it is a pretty good clue you have seasonal allergies.

Treatments are generally the same no matter what type of allergy you have. The best is to avoid of the object or pollen that is causing your allergic reaction — which is easier said than done.

There are medications which also help with seasonal allergies, such as:

• Decongestants and antihistamines; over-the-counter options include Benadryl, Mucinex, Claritin and Zyrtec (Remember the medication with the most affective ingredients have to be asked for at the pharmacy, but you do not need a prescription).
• Respiratory inhalers
• Anti-inflammatory medication

If you have allergies, don’t ignore them because you do not want to admit you have allergies. Allergy symptoms rarely go away on their own, and poorly managed allergies or refusal to recognize seasonal allergies will lead to more severe symptoms and possible infections.

Contributing: Jordan Ormond

Suzanne Carlile, "Nurse Suzy," has been a nurse since 1982. Her main focus is critical care and nursing education. She holds a master's degree in nursing, is a Certified Emergency Nurse, and a member of NNSDO Intermountain West Chapter.

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