Why Allergy Symptoms in Columbia Seem to Last Longer Than Expected

If you have noticed that your sneezes are getting more frequent, you are not alone. Pollen season is just starting in Columbia, SC.

South Carolina is known for its warm weather and beautiful landscapes. While the state is known for its beauty, it’s also notorious for being a horrible place for allergy sufferers, and is often ranked as one of the worst states for allergies.

Let’s take a deeper look at allergy season in Columbia, why your allergy symptoms seem to last longer, and how you can recognize signs that it’s time to see an ENT for your seasonal issues.

What Are Allergies?

Allergies are described as the immune system’s response to seemingly harmless foreign substances (known as allergens) that it misidentifies as a threat and overreacts to.

Anyone can develop allergies to a wide range of substances they inhale, touch, or eat. Pollen, mold, pet dander, food, certain medications, and insect venom are some common allergens.

When you inhale, touch, or eat something you’re allergic to, it may lead to minor reactions such as sneezing, itching, and hives or skin rashes. However, in rare cases, allergens can cause life-threatening reactions, such as the tightening and swelling of the airways or anaphylaxis (low blood pressure).

What Are Seasonal Allergies?

Seasonal allergies, on the other hand, refer to allergies that are triggered by a substance in the environment, usually pollen released during spring, summer, or fall seasons.

They’re called “seasonal” allergies because different types of plants pollinate and release pollen during different times of the year. Individuals with seasonal allergies experience different allergy timelines, depending on what their triggers are and on the time of the year.

What are the symptoms of seasonal allergies?

Symptoms of seasonal allergies vary significantly per individual. They’re usually dependent on the person’s allergy triggers, allergy severity, and the time of the year.

Common symptoms of seasonal allergies include:

• Frequent sneezing
• Nasal congestion
• Itchy and watery eyes
• Postnasal drip, or mucus dripping down the back of the throat
• Stuffy nose with clear, thin, and watery discharge
• Coughing
• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Hives or skin rash

Why Do Allergy Symptoms Seem to Last Longer in Columbia, SC?

South Carolina enjoys a relatively mild climate all year round. This, plus the state’s abundant plant life, results in high pollen concentrations and an extended allergy season, which usually begins and lasts longer than in other parts of the country.

Allergy season in the state usually begins as early as February, peaks in March, and lasts until November. Moreover, allergy season can persist most of the year along the coastal region, while the midland areas usually experience a more typical allergy season.

South Carolina allergens per season

Depending on what you’re allergic to, you might experience allergy symptoms in varying degrees throughout the year. Here’s a quick breakdown of South Carolina’s allergy season:

• Spring season allergies are typically caused by trees, such as oak, pine, hickory, ash, cedar, willow, and mulberry.
• Summer season allergies usually come from grass pollen, such as ryegrass, Bermuda, and sweet vernal.
• Fall season allergies usually result from exposure to common allergens such as ragweed, sagebrush, and Russian thistle.
• The winter season usually means a break from seasonal allergens, as plants pause their vegetation. However, indoor allergens such as dust mites and pet dander can become an increasing problem as people spend more time indoors.

Climate change and longer allergy seasons

According to Climate Central, climate change contributes to earlier, longer, and worse allergy seasons for the residents of Columbia (and the rest of the country). Unusually warm spring days are also more common now, which can prolong seasonal allergies.

When Should I See an ENT for Allergy Symptoms in Columbia, SC?

Symptoms such as nasal congestion, frequent sneezing, breathing difficulties, coughing, and headaches during certain times of the year may be consistent with seasonal allergies. If you are experiencing this, it might be a good time to see a healthcare professional for a consultation.

Your primary care provider can assess your symptoms and, depending on your clinical findings, may refer you to an ENT specialist (also known as an otolaryngologist) for further testing.

Allergy Testing in Columbia, SC

During a consultation with an ENT doctor in Columbia, SC, they will assess your symptoms and their severity, as well as ask how long you’ve had them and what allergens you might be exposed to.

Allergy testing is also part of the diagnosis process, which can include:

• A skin test (skin prick test or intradermal skin test) to identify allergens that may be triggering your symptoms
• A blood test to check for antibodies (called immunoglobulin E or IgE) in your blood, which are related to the immune system’s response to allergens

Your physician will determine which type of test is appropriate for you, based on individual health factors.

Allergy Treatment in Columbia, SC

Your ENT care provider will recommend treatment options and coping strategies based on your clinical findings, which may include:

• Medications, such as allergy meds, decongestants, antihistamines, nasal sprays, eye drops, and pain relievers, may help reduce symptom severity in some individuals, though effectiveness varies.
• Immunotherapy may help modify how the immune system reacts to allergens in some individuals. Allergy drops and allergy shots are two types of immunotherapy. Results from immunotherapy vary, and outcomes are not guaranteed. Your ENT doctor will discuss potential benefits and risks during your consultation.
• Lifestyle modifications can help limit and manage your exposure to allergens and triggers. These changes may include:

☑️Monitor daily pollen count.

☑️Keep your home clean and free from allergens and irritants.

☑️Wear a protective mask when heading out, especially on high-pollen days

☑️Keep windows closed, especially on windy days.

☑️Trim trees, mow the lawn, and pull weeds.

☑️Use a HEPA filter in your A/C unit.

☑️Take off outdoor clothes and shower immediately after spending time outdoors.

☑️Do not hang laundry to dry outside during peak allergy season.

Conclusion: Staying on Top of Your Seasonal Allergies in Columbia, SC

Columbia Breathe Free provides ENT care services for the residents of Columbia, Lexington, Irmo, and the nearby communities. Patients who wish to learn more about our clinic and the services we provide can visit and explore our website for more information.