With warm spring weather setting in a little early this year, so are allergies. Doctors with Edward-Elmhurst Health say they’re seeing patients with allergy issues earlier than normal.
“I think because we’ve had periods where it’s been warmer than usual and then it got damp and then it got cold again, some things started blossoming early in February, and I started seeing patients coming into the clinics in February with allergy symptoms,” said Aleta Hawkins, a physician assistant with Edward-Elmhurst Health’s Walk-In Clinics.
Typical symptoms of mild to moderate allergies include runny nose, congestion, sneezing and itchy or watery eyes – signs patients often confuse with a cold.
But some lifestyle changes can help limit the affects of allergens since spring has sprung.
“Keeping windows closed during windy days or if you have a dust allergy making sure that you’re cleaning around the home, that you’re bathing or washing your hands frequently if you’re spending a long time outside or if you’re outside mowing the lawn making sure you’re changing your clothes,” said Hawkins.
Doctors recommend contacting your physician if you are unsure you have allergies or if symptoms become severe.
Naperville News 17’s Beth Bria reports.