Human nose

If your eyes are suddenly itchy and you’re rubbing them a lot, you may have Springtime allergies.

Check pollen count in your area at http://www.aaaai.org/global/nab-pollen-counts.aspx

Below is a Symptom Checklist so you can tell if you or your kids have either one.

SYMPTOM CHECKLIST:

ALLERGY SYMPTOMS:

Itchy Eyes

Itchy Nose

Itchy Throat

Headache Behind Eyes

Clear Mucus if Nose is Runny

Onset Immediate

Sometimes Fatigue

No Fever

Cough

Doesn’t Go Away

vs.

COLD SYMPTOMS:

Sneezing

Sore Throat

Headache

Sometimes Fever

No Itchy Eyes

Lack of Appetite

Fatigue

Achy Body

Comes on Slowly

Cough

Yellow or Green Mucus if Nose is Runny

Last 5-10 Days (more than that could be a sinus infection, see doctor)

THINGS TO HELP:

ALLERGIES:

The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology says avoiding allergy triggers is the best way to reduce symptoms. Here’s how:

Limit outdoor activities during days with high pollen counts.

Keep windows closed (at home or in the car) to keep pollens out.

Take a shower after coming indoors. Otherwise, pollen in your hair may bother you all night.

Also, wear sunglasses to keep pollen from getting in your eyes, keep pets away from plants and trees (good luck with THAT).

…and there’s always over-the-counter help.

COLDS: Drink lots of fluids, get lots of rest, lozengers if your throat is sore, chicken soup, TLC and wait it out, over-the-counter help if it’s bad. See a physician if it lasts more than 10-days. A sinus infection will require antibiotics.