As the sun radiates, birds serenade, and flowers blossom, the delightful weather in Canada is in full swing. However, the advent of seasonal allergies can swiftly cast a shadow over your outdoor activities.

Allergies or a cold?

It can be hard to tell the difference between allergy symptoms and a cold. Some allergy symptoms to watch out for include:

• Runny nose
• Sneezing
• Itchy nose, eyes, or roof of mouth
• Red and watery eyes
• Congestion
• Pressure in nose and cheeks
• Ear fullness and popping
• Post nasal drip

Fever, aches and pains, coughing, and a sore throat are generally not allergy symptoms. It’s always best to book a doctor’s appointment to discuss your symptoms. At Teston Medical our doctors can help provide you with an accurate diagnosis and provide appropriate treatment options.

Typically, allergy symptoms do not include fever, body aches, coughing, or a sore throat. It is advisable to schedule an appointment with a doctor to discuss your symptoms. At Teston Medical, our physicians can offer a precise diagnosis and recommend suitable treatment alternatives.

What am I allergic to?

If you have allergies, the symptoms you are experiencing are the result of your immune system reacting to allergens in the environment. Some of the most common allergens include pollen, pet dander, mould, and dust mites.

While seasonal allergies are prevalent among many individuals, others contend with allergies throughout the year.

To pinpoint your specific allergens, your doctor can administer a skin test. This procedure involves applying small quantities of various allergens onto your skin, and your doctor will observe any resulting reactions such as redness or swelling. By assessing these responses, your doctor can determine the substances to which you are allergic.

Why are my allergies so bad this year?

In 2023, individuals with seasonal allergies have been significantly affected by substantially elevated pollen levels and poor air quality resulting from forest fires. Regions such as Ontario and Quebec have experienced notable impacts, with certain areas witnessing two or three times the usual pollen concentrations alongside air quality advisories.

Consequently, individuals with allergies are being exposed to a greater abundance of allergens compared to previous years.

You can find out the pollen levels in your area by checking your local news or weather report.

How can you treat allergies?

Reducing your exposure can be extremely helpful in managing your symptoms. This might mean delegating some outdoor chores to another member of your household, or staying inside. Other ways to limit your exposure to pollen include:

• Avoid drying your laundry outside—pollen can stick to your laundry
• Change your clothes and shower when you return from outdoors—pollen can stick to your clothes, skin, and hair
• Stay indoors on dry windy days—try going outside after a good rain that helps wash away the pollen
• Wear a pollen mask for outdoor chores
• Use an air purifier indoors

For individuals dealing with allergies, there are various medication choices accessible, both over-the-counter and through prescription. Seeking a doctor’s consultation can help guarantee that you receive the appropriate treatment tailored to your specific allergies.

Common treatments for allergies include:

• Nasal sprays
• Antihistamines
• Decongestants
• Eye drops
• Immunotherapy
  
  

Can someone at Teston Medical help me?

Of course! Schedule a doctor’s appointment at our walk in facility in Vaughan and one of our team members will be happy to help. Our licensed Canadian physicians can help diagnose and can also provide prescriptions.

If a skin test is required, our doctors will help find a nearby facility who can help carry out the test.