Seasonal Allergies Specialist
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Keith L. Perkins, M.D.
Internal Medicine & Pediatrician located in Selmer, TN
From sniffling and sneezing to red eyes and an itchy nose, if you’ve ever had allergies, you know how uncomfortable they are to live with. At Premier Internal Medicine and Pediatrics in Selmer, Tennessee, Dr. Perkins is waiting to manage your allergies.
Seasonal Allergies Q & A
Is it allergies or a cold?
While allergies and colds share many of the same uncomfortable symptoms, they're entirely different in how they originate and how they're treated.
Allergies are the result of an overactive immune response, which is triggered by a foreign agent entering the body (pollen, dust, etc.). Colds develop because of a viral infection.
It may be hard to know whether you have allergies or a cold, but a few indicators are:
Allergies rarely cause a sore throat, while colds often do.
Itchy eyes probably indicate allergies, as colds rarely tend to cause this symptom.
General aches and pains or a slight fever probably indicate a cold.
Colds tend to last about a week, while allergies can last several weeks or months.
How are allergies treated?
The best way to treat your allergies, or your child’s allergies, is to know for sure what you’re allergic to.
A simple allergy test can often indicate what is causing your symptoms, and it only involves a small prick to the skin. Blood tests can also give you information about your particular sensitivities.
If you don’t want allergy tests, however, Dr. Perkins can still help you or your child manage symptoms. There are numerous allergy medicines available, such as:
Antihistamines, which treat seasonal allergies or those caused by indoor triggers
Nasal sprays, which help alleviate symptoms of a stuffy or swollen nose
Decongestants, which reduce swelling in the nasal membranes
Corticosteroids, which help allergy symptoms like itchiness or rashes
Immunotherapy may also be an option for treating your allergies, depending on your health history and specific sensitivities. And, as an expert in pediatric medicine, Dr. Perkins addresses your child’s allergies safely and effectively.
What can I do to feel better?
If possible, it’s best to avoid whatever causes seasonal allergies. Doing so might mean spending less time outdoors or minimizing exposure to areas that trigger your symptoms.
In addition to medication, lifestyle adjustments and home remedies might also help both you and your child:
Smoking cessation/eliminate 2nd hand smoke exposure
Over the counter antihistamines
- Try nasal saline rinses
- Over the counter or prescription nasal steroid
To book an appointment with Dr. Perkins, schedule it online or call the office today.
