As the darker winter months leave us, spring brings sunshine, warmth, and a much-needed mood boost!

But along with warmer temperatures, increased daylight hours, and blooming plants and flowers also come a host of spring illnesses. Runny noses, coughing, sneezing, and even “the stomach bug” appear suddenly as soon as the winter weather breaks.

Why do illnesses hit harder in the spring?

Spring allergies, which affect more than 50 million Americans annually, can influence these illnesses.

Nasal inflammation from allergies enables viruses to “set up shop” in your nose. Even without allergies, however, seasonal changes in barometric pressure, temperature, and wind can irritate your nose, and threaten your immune system against springtime illnesses, increasing vulnerability to infection.

So, what are the most common springtime illnesses, and how can you treat them?

Spring Allergies

Unsurprisingly, spring allergies are a significant source of spring illnesses. When the pollen count increases, allergy sufferers experience sneezing, itchy and watery eyes, scratchy throat, and more.
Thankfully, allergies are treatable and sometimes even preventable. Over-the-counter medications like oral antihistamines, nasal sprays, decongestants, and rinses can lessen allergy symptoms. In addition, most people can easily manage their allergy symptoms without medical attention.

However, Urgent Care Centers can provide prescriptions and recommendations for over-the-counter medications if you suffer from spring allergies despite treatment. Consider visiting your local urgent care if you’re experiencing concerning or nagging symptoms.

Asthma

Warmer temperatures also bring heightened Asthma symptoms. Many sufferers experience asthma triggers due to pollen or air temperature changes. Outdoor air pollution, like those caused by cars, factories, or wildfire smoke, can also cause asthma attacks.

Although asthma is manageable for most people, it can become serious if left untreated. Keep your inhaler handy, and always seek medical attention if you experience severe wheezing, difficulty breathing, or shortness of breath.

Your local urgent care also has treatment available if you struggle to manage your symptoms.

Common Cold

The common cold, caused by the rhinovirus, sees its second peak in the spring. While most people experience 2-3 colds each year, some also get a cold as soon as spring hits.

While no cure exists for the common cold, the CDC recommends hand washing, avoiding touching your eyes, face, and mouth, and staying away from others who are sick as preventative measures. In addition, hydration and lots of rest are essential for recovery.

How We Can Help

If you’re experiencing non-emergency illnesses or conditions and can’t wait for your doctor, visit Lincoln Urgent Care or Granite Bay Urgent Care for testing, diagnosing, and treatment options. You can also book a telemedicine appointment or call either facility for an appointment:

Lincoln Urgent Care (916) 258-2751
Granite Bay Urgent Care (916) 570-7265