tips to keep symptoms at bay

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) — After a dark winter season, it’s finally time for blooming trees, fresh grass, and budding flowers. But with this, comes the time for runny noses, itchy eyes, and sore throats.

This year’s allergy flare-ups are worse this year, according to Dr. Puja Vithalani, family medicine physician at Kaiser Permanente.

“This is definitely the time of year when you want to take control of them so that you can have you can enjoy your spring,” Vithalani said.

The cause of allergies is traced to the emission of pollen from plants, which enters our respiratory system.

Allergy symptoms include:

• runny nose
• dry eyes
• congestion

Although similar to a common cold, allergies will likely not cause a fever, Vithalani said.

Suggested treatments for allergies are:

• over-the-counter medicine, such as oral antihistamines or nasal spray
• closing windows in the home
• removing shoes and jackets when indoors

Vithalani said that certain medication affects others differently, so the process is trial and error. However, if you are experiencing extreme discomfort and at-home treatment isn’t working, contact your doctor.