Spring allergies to pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds can be heard across the country as around 67 million adults and 14 million kids sneeze and sniffle their way through the next several months.
But spring allergies can do more than cause congestion. They may also trigger an eye allergy called seasonal allergic conjunctivitis that causes dark circles under your eyes, puffy eyelids, and red, itchy eyes. In addition, skin allergies may lead to hives, swelling, eczema flares, and contact dermatitis. And respiratory reactions and asthma flares can make it difficult to breathe.
The American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology says that if you are having these symptoms, it's important to identify the cause and determine your best treatment options.
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There are blood tests that look for IgE antibodies produced in reaction to allergens. Skin tests (also called scratch tests) see if you have a response to any allergen by introducing a tiny bit of it into your skin.
If your tests reveal a spring allergy, you might receive allergy shots designed to stop your allergic reaction, take oral medications (antihistamines and/or asthma meds), and/or use eye drops.
You can also reduce exposure outdoors by wearing a N95 mask and using HEPA air filters and air conditioners indoors.And ask your doctor about taking bovine colostrum supplements. They've been shown to significantly reduce nasal allergy symptoms and improve lung function compared to placebo.