Cold or allergies? Spring symptoms can be hard to tell apart

What to watch for outside

As the snow melts, allergens that were buried over winter begin to surface.

“You must look for things like snow molds, what was underneath the snow,” said Hubick. “Often, there’s a lot of decaying leaves and things that were under the snow that are now being exposed this time of year.”

Dust is another early-season trigger.

“When the snow melts, there’s a lot of dust… we haven’t had that good rain yet… so all those things play a factor,” she said.

Tree buds also release pollen, with levels often higher in the morning, on windy days or before a thunderstorm.

Reducing allergy symptoms

While medication is the most effective way to manage allergies, there are simple ways to limit exposure.

“When you’re outside, you can wear a hat, wear sunglasses,” said Hubick. “That’s going to help protect your eyes from allergens.”

Wearing long sleeves while doing yard work can also help.

Hubick recommends using a saline rinse regularly.

“I recommend every single person that has allergies to try a saline rinse,” she said. “All it’s going to do is keep your nose from being dry… which will reduce symptoms.”

Other options include nasal sprays and oral medications.

Allergies and asthma

Seasonal allergies can worsen asthma symptoms, making it important to monitor changes.

“If people are experiencing (symptoms) more than two times a week… that’s a sign to do something different,” said Hubick.

She encourages people to have an asthma action plan in place with their healthcare provider and to carry a reliever medication.

Getting tested

Accessing allergy testing in Saskatchewan can take time due to limited specialists.

“But if you’re experiencing severe symptoms… then this would be an appropriate avenue for you,” said Hubick.

Specialists can offer additional treatments, including immunotherapy, once specific allergens are identified.

While allergy season shouldn’t keep people indoors, recognizing symptoms and managing exposure can make it easier to enjoy spring.

—

Ryan.Lambert@pattisonmedia.com

by Ryan Lambert

Cold or allergies? Spring symptoms can be hard to tell apart

What's Trending