If you’ve got allergy symptoms, we’ve got answers.

How can I tell the difference between a cold and seasonal allergies?

Colds usually last for 7 to 10 days. Symptoms may include a sore throat, runny nose, body aches, and sometimes a fever.

Allergy symptoms are similar and may include itchy eyes as well as a runny nose and a sore throat from post-nasal drip. The key differences from a cold are that allergy symptoms last longer and may come and go.

I love being outside in my garden this time of year, but how I can I keep my allergy symptoms under control?

  • Go outside when the pollen count is low. You can check the pollen count in your area.
  • Wear long sleeves to avoid skin contact with allergens.
  • Wear a lightweight mask over your nose and mouth to minimize breathing in pollen spores.
  • Take a shower after you are outside.
  • Change your pillowcase every night so you’re not shedding pollen where you sleep.

How can I keep my allergy symptoms to a minimum?

  • Avoidance is key to minimizing your symptoms. Stay inside in the air conditioning when possible and keep your windows closed.
  • Keep your airway as moist as possible with an over-the-counter saline nasal spray. Use a diffuser or cool mist humidifier to keep air moist indoors.
  • Keep up your probiotics. Found in yogurt or pill form, probiotics can put natural bacteria back into your body.

Learn more about how to combat seasonal allergies on Christiana Care’s Facebook Live with Linda Simmons, FNP.

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