How long do allergies symptoms last?

More than 24 million people in the United States have allergies. So, if dust, pollen, and other things make your eyes water, you’re not alone.

If you have allergies, your body reacts to things that are usually safe, like pollen. Your immune system treats these allergens as threats. This causes symptoms like a runny nose, sneezing and itchy eyes.

What affects how long allergies last?

How long allergy symptoms last depends on what you’re allergic to and how sensitive you are.

If you have a pollen allergy, you may notice symptoms at the same time every year because certain plants release pollen during specific seasons. You might feel more affected by pollen when the count is high for a plant that you’re allergic to.

Here’s what to expect throughout the year:

• Early spring: Tree pollen is common.
• Late spring to summer: Grass pollen increases.
• Late summer to early fall: Weeds release pollen. Mold spores from rotting wood and plants also rise from July to October.

Hot, dry, windy days can make allergies worse because pollen spreads more easily. Rainy or calm days usually mean there’s less pollen in the air.

Everyone experiences allergies differently. Your symptoms might not be the same as someone else’s.

Seasonal vs. year-round allergies

Seasonal allergies are allergies that happen when certain plants release pollen, usually in the spring, summer or fall. If you live in a warmer climate, you might have allergies year-round.

Year-round allergies happen if you’re sensitive to something that you’re exposed to all the time, no matter the season. Common causes are:

• Pet dander
• Dust mites
• Mold inside the home
• Cockroaches

Strong smells, smoke and changes in temperature or humidity can also trigger symptoms.

How long do seasonal allergies last?

Seasonal allergies—often called hay fever—can last several weeks. How long they last depends on the plant or plants you’re allergic to and how long those plants release pollen.

Allergy vs. cold: How long symptoms usually last

Colds and the flu are caused by viruses. Their symptoms usually last from 2 to 14 days. Allergy symptoms last as long as you’re exposed to the allergen. Hay fever often lasts for weeks, which is longer than a typical cold.

When to talk with a doctor

If allergies are impacting your daily life, consider speaking with your primary care doctor or an allergist. They can help you find ways to handle your allergies day-to-day and recommend ways to manage symptoms. If your symptoms last longer than a few weeks or get worse, it’s a good idea to see a doctor.

A doctor might suggest:

• Staying away from or limiting your exposure to the allergen
• Taking allergy medicines
• Allergy shots or tablets to reduce sensitivity over time

If your symptoms are mild, it’s still a good idea to let your doctor know. Your comfort matters. If you have a severe reaction that includes tongue swelling, trouble breathing or trouble swallowing, call 911 and get medical help right away.

Takeaway

Allergies last as long as you’re exposed to what triggers them. If your allergies are making life difficult, reach out to your doctor. Your doctor can help you find out the cause of your symptoms and discuss treatment options to help you feel better.

Primary care doctors (also called primary care physicians or primary care providers) at Crystal Run Healthcare provide both the first point of contact for patients with an undiagnosed health concern as well as continuing care for varied medical conditions, not limited by cause, organ system or diagnosis. We offer integrated, coordinated care for all patients, including those with common medical conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, coronary artery disease and congestive heart failure. In fact, our care management data proves that patients with these conditions receive better care, demonstrated by measures that exceed national quality benchmarks. Whether you choose a family medicine practitioner, an internist, or a geriatric specialist, your primary care provider at Crystal Run Healthcare will manage and coordinate all your healthcare needs.