Doctor's Orders

Understanding Environmental & Seasonal Allergies in Children and Adults

Joseph Chow, MD

At EPN Urgent Care, we see patients of all ages dealing with frustrating allergy symptoms—especially during peak pollen seasons. Whether it’s a child with itchy eyes or an adult constantly sneezing, environmental and seasonal allergies are common and can significantly impact quality of life. Understanding the causes and how to manage them can make a big difference for your family.

What Are Environmental and Seasonal Allergies?

Allergies occur when the immune system overreacts to something in the environment, such as pollen, dust mites, mold, or pet dander. Seasonal allergies — also known as “hay fever” or allergic rhinitis—are triggered by pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds, and tend to flare up during specific times of the year.

Common Triggers by Season:

• Spring: Tree pollen (like oak, maple, birch)
• Summer: Grass pollen (like Bermuda or Timothy grass)
• Fall: Weed pollen (like ragweed)
• Year-Round: Dust mites, pet dander, mold spores

Signs and Symptoms in All Ages

Allergy symptoms can affect the nose, eyes, throat, and even the lungs. It can affect both kids and adults.

Common symptoms include:

• Sneezing, nasal congestion, or runny nose
• Itchy or watery eyes
• Postnasal drip or chronic throat clearing
• Coughing or wheezing
• Itchy throat or ears
• Fatigue due to disrupted sleep
• Dark under-eye circles (commonly seen in children)

In patients with asthma, allergies can also trigger flare-ups or worsen respiratory symptoms.

Diagnosing Allergies

If symptoms last more than a week, come back every year around the same time, or worsen outdoors, allergies are likely. Your healthcare provider can typically diagnose you based upon a history and exam, and may recommend allergy testing (via skin or blood tests) to identify specific triggers and guide treatment.

Treatment & Prevention

There are several effective options to manage allergy symptoms:

• Avoidance: Limit outdoor time on high pollen days, shower after being outside, and use air purifiers indoors.
• Medications: Over-the-counter antihistamines, decongestants, nasal sprays, and eye drops can provide relief. Prescription options are available for more severe cases.
• Allergy Shots: For patients with chronic or severe allergies, immunotherapy may reduce sensitivity over time.

Speak with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment, especially in young children or older adults.

When to Visit EPN Urgent Care

Some allergy symptoms can mimic colds, sinus infections, or asthma. Visit EPN Urgent Care if:

• Symptoms aren’t improving with over-the-counter treatments
• Breathing becomes difficult or wheezing occurs
• Allergy symptoms disrupt sleep or daily function
• You’re unsure whether it’s allergies or something else

We’re open extended hours, 7 days a week, to provide fast, expert care when you need it—without the long wait or cost of an ER visit.

EPN Urgent Care – Treating allergies and more for the whole family, for over 20 years!