Spring is here, and for about 1 in 3 U.S. adults, that means the return of seasonal allergies. As trees and flowers bloom, pollen fills the air, triggering symptoms like sneezing, itching, and congestion. Many people also experience a persistent cough during allergy season, but can allergies give you a cough?
In this blog post, we’ll explain how allergies affect your respiratory system, why coughing is a common symptom, and how you can manage it. At MedNow Urgent Care in Augusta, GA, we’re here to provide fast, convenient care for all your seasonal allergy needs. Keep reading to learn more.
What Causes Spring Allergies?
Spring allergies are typically caused by the increase in pollen from trees, grasses, and flowers that comes with warmer weather. As plants release pollen into the air, it can easily enter your nose and eyes, triggering allergic reactions.
The immune system mistakenly identifies these harmless particles as harmful invaders and releases chemicals like histamines to fight them off. This leads to common allergy symptoms, such as:
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
- Itchy eyes
Mold spores, which thrive in damp environments, are also more abundant in the spring and can contribute to allergic reactions. Additionally, dust mites, which are present year-round but are often stirred up during spring cleaning, can aggravate allergies.
Properly understanding the causes of these reactions is the first step in managing symptoms and minimizing exposure to allergens during allergy season.
Can Allergies Give You a Cough?
In simple terms, allergies can lead to a cough because they cause inflammation in the respiratory system. When allergens like pollen or mold enter the body, the immune system reacts by releasing histamines to fight what it perceives as harmful particles. This immune response can cause irritation and swelling in the nasal passages, throat, and airways.
One common result of this is post-nasal drip, where mucus from the nose drips down the back of the throat. This can trigger a cough as your body tries to clear the excess mucus from the airways.
Additionally, the inflammation caused by allergens can make the airways more sensitive, leading to coughing as a protective reflex. Allergy-related coughing is usually dry and persistent, and it may worsen at night when allergens are more concentrated or when lying down exacerbates post-nasal drip.
Unlike a cold or flu, an allergy-related cough doesn’t typically come with other symptoms like fever, making it easier to distinguish.
Common Symptoms of Allergies and Coughing
Common allergy symptoms include sneezing, a runny or stuffy nose, itchy or watery eyes, and a scratchy throat. These symptoms occur when the body reacts to allergens like:
- Pollen
- Mold
- Dust
A persistent cough is also a common symptom of allergies. This cough is often dry and caused by post-nasal drip, where mucus from the nose drips down the back of the throat, leading to irritation.
In addition to coughing, some people may experience a feeling of congestion or pressure in the sinuses. Itchy eyes, nose, or throat are also frequent signs of allergic reactions. Unlike a cold or flu, allergy-related symptoms usually don’t include fever or body aches.
If you notice a cough that persists for more than a week or worsens at night, it may be linked to allergies rather than an infection.
When to Seek Medical Attention for a Cough
The good news is that most allergy-related coughs can be managed at home with over-the-counter medications and home remedies. However, there are times when you should seek medical attention. If your cough persists for more than two weeks despite treatment, it could be a sign of a more serious condition, like a respiratory infection or asthma.
A cough that is accompanied by wheezing, shortness of breath, or chest pain should be evaluated immediately, as it could indicate a more severe issue, such as an infection or an underlying lung condition.
Additionally, if your cough produces green or yellow mucus, this could signal a bacterial infection that may require antibiotics. If you experience severe coughing fits that interfere with your sleep or daily activities, it’s a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.
At MedNow Urgent Care, we offer convenient, walk-in services to help assess your symptoms and provide the right treatment when needed.
Why Choose MedNow Urgent Care for Your Allergy Symptoms
Our team at MedNow Urgent Care understands just how frustrating seasonal allergies can be, especially when symptoms like coughing, sneezing, and congestion interfere with your daily life. Our clinic offers fast, convenient, and affordable care to help you manage your allergy symptoms. We’re open seven days a week, with no appointment necessary, so you can get the care you need when it’s most convenient for you.
Our board-certified emergency medical physicians have extensive experience diagnosing and treating allergy-related symptoms, and they’re dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized care. We also offer on-site laboratory services and digital x-rays, allowing us to quickly rule out other conditions or complications that could be contributing to your cough or other symptoms.
With MedNow’s easy online check-in service, you can save your spot and wait from the comfort of your home, eliminating long wait times in crowded waiting rooms. If you’re dealing with a mild cough or more severe allergy symptoms, MedNow Urgent Care is here to provide the timely, effective treatment you need to feel better and get back to your day.
Treating Allergies Effectively This Spring
So, can allergies give you a cough? The answer is yes, as when your body reacts to allergens, it can trigger a persistent, dry cough due to inflammation and post-nasal drip. This is a common symptom of allergy symptoms and can last as long as you’re exposed to allergens. If your cough from allergies continues for more than a week or worsens, it’s a good idea to seek medical attention.
At MedNow Urgent Care, we’re here to provide fast, convenient care for all your allergy-related concerns. You shouldn’t wait for your symptoms to worsen. Instead, contact one of our nine convenient locations to ensure that you get the care you need today.
