Spring allergies: Relief starts here

Spring has a way of making us want to reset. We open the windows. We spend more time outside. We start new routines, new workouts and new projects. Then, allergy season shows up.

If you find yourself sneezing through meetings, waking up congested or experiencing itchy eyes after a quick walk around the block, you’re not alone. But with the right allergy treatment and support from CareNow® urgent care, you can get back to feeling like yourself.

When is spring allergy season?

For many people, spring allergy season lasts through late spring and sometimes into early summer. As tree pollen levels drop, grass pollen can continue to trigger symptoms. If your symptoms seem to linger or shift with the seasons, your care team at CareNow can help you manage them.

Spring allergies often begin as early as late February or March in many parts of the country. Tree pollen is usually the first trigger, followed by grass pollen as the season progresses.

Exactly when spring allergies start depends on where you live and the local weather patterns. Warmer temperatures and windy days can bring higher pollen counts, which may cause symptoms to flare up more quickly.

What are common spring allergy symptoms?

Spring allergy symptoms can range from mild to frustrating. Common symptoms include:

• Runny or stuffy nose
• Itchy or watery eyes
• Sneezing
• Scratchy throat
• Postnasal drip
• Cough
• Sinus pressure

For some people, allergies can also trigger headaches, fatigue or worsen asthma symptoms. Because colds, sinus infections and allergies can share similar symptoms, it’s not always easy to tell what’s going on.

If your symptoms last more than 10 days, return after briefly improving or are accompanied by facial pain or fever, you may be dealing with something more than simple spring allergies.

Best allergy treatments for spring symptoms

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, but there are several effective options for managing spring allergies. Common treatments include:

• Oral antihistamines for allergies, which help reduce the body’s allergic response
• Nasal steroid sprays to safely reduce inflammation
• Oral decongestants for short-term relief

In addition to medication, small changes can help reduce pollen exposure. Keeping windows closed during high pollen days, showering after being outdoors and using high-efficiency air filters at home may all help.

If over-the-counter medications are not working or your symptoms are interfering with sleep, work or school, it may be time to seek care. Find a location near you.

Does urgent care treat allergies?

Yes. Urgent care for allergies is a convenient option when symptoms become difficult to manage or when you’re unsure what’s causing them.

At CareNow, we can:

• Evaluate your symptoms
• Determine if your symptoms are allergies, a sinus infection or another condition
• Recommend allergy treatment options
• Prescribe medications when appropriate

We can also help if your allergies have triggered a sinus infection, ear discomfort or an asthma flare.

Allergy symptoms don’t always happen during regular office hours. With extended hours and walk-in availability, CareNow can help you get relief quickly and get back to your routine.

When to seek care for spring allergies

Consider visiting urgent care if you experience:

• Symptoms that are not improving with over-the-counter medications
• Severe sinus pressure or facial pain
• Thick nasal discharge or fever
• Wheezing or shortness of breath
• Persistent symptoms that disrupt daily routines

You don’t have to wait until symptoms become severe. Early allergy treatment can help prevent complications and make the rest of allergy season more manageable.

Take control of allergy season

Spring should feel like a fresh start, not a season you have to endure.

If spring allergies are slowing you down, CareNow® urgent care is here to help. Walk in at a location near you or check in online for convenient care. Our team can evaluate your symptoms and recommend the best allergy treatments to help you breathe easier and enjoy the season ahead.

Why choose CareNow® urgent care?

If you need convenient care after hours or on the weekend, consider visiting your local CareNow® urgent care clinic. With more than 225 locations throughout the country, we are ready to see you when you need it most. We offer comprehensive and accessible healthcare through our extensive clinic network, convenient Web Check-In® service and Virtual Visits, making us a dependable option for your medical needs. Visit the CareNow locations webpage to find a clinic near you.