AdventHealth Medical Group Internal Medicine at East 2nd Avenue

Destiny Phillips, FNP-C

715 East 2nd Avenue Southwest

Rome, GA  30161

706-291-9898

https://www.adventhealth.com/locations/practices/adventhealth-medical-group/internal-medicine-east-2nd-avenue

Seasonal Allergies: Simple Steps, Smarter Relief

For many people living in Northwest Georgia, spring brings longer days, full calendars of outdoor events, sunny skies, and relentless allergy symptoms. Congestion, itchy eyes, sneezing, and sinus pressure may seem like minor nuisances, but left unmanaged, seasonal allergies can quickly get in the way of everyday function.

According to Destiny Phillips, FNP-C, a nurse practitioner with AdventHealth Medical Group Internal Medicine on East 2nd Avenue, allergy-related visits increase significantly this time of year. “We’re seeing a lot of patients with classic seasonal allergy symptoms; congestion, runny nose, sneezing, and itchy eyes,” Phillips says. “Some people are more sensitive than others, depending on how their immune system reacts to pollen and environmental triggers.”

Allergies or Something More?

One of the most common questions patients ask is how to tell the difference between seasonal allergies and a cold or flu. Phillips notes that the distinction often comes down to severity and duration.

“Allergies tend to cause persistent symptoms that last for weeks, especially nasal congestion, sneezing, and itchy eyes,” she explains. “With a cold or virus, you’re more likely to see fever, body aches, chills, and symptoms that resolve within seven to ten days.”

Understanding the difference can help professionals avoid unnecessary antibiotics or lost time powering through an illness that requires a different approach.

Reducing Exposure Starts at Home

While pollen levels can’t be controlled, exposure can be reduced with a few simple habits. Phillips recommends removing shoes at the door to avoid tracking pollen indoors, showering and changing clothes after spending time outside, and washing bedding more frequently during allergy season.

“Clean HVAC filters are also critical,” she adds. “They play a big role in filtering out allergens and improving indoor air quality, something many people overlook.”

Choosing the Right Treatment

Over-the-counter allergy options can be effective when chosen thoughtfully. Antihistamine pills, nasal sprays, and allergy eye drops all serve different purposes.

“The best option really depends on your main symptoms,” Phillips says. “If itchy eyes are the issue, eye drops may help most. For congestion and runny nose, nasal sprays often work best. For ongoing seasonal allergies, a daily allergy medication can provide consistent relief.”

For adults with asthma or chronic lung conditions such as COPD, unmanaged allergies can lead to more serious flare-ups. “It’s especially important for these patients to manage allergies early,” Phillips emphasizes. “Otherwise, we’re dealing with two issues at once.”

The Value of a Primary Care Partner

Having a trusted primary care provider can make seasonal allergies far more manageable year after year. “We track what works, what doesn’t, and recognize patterns in our patients,” Phillips explains. “Some patients think they get a ‘cold’ every spring, when it’s actually allergies we can treat more effectively.”

If over-the-counter treatments stop working, or if symptoms worsen or include fever and body aches, Phillips encourages patients to seek medical guidance.

“Allergies may be common,” she says, “but being miserable doesn’t have to be.”

Having a trusted primary care provider can help mitigate health issues early and set you up for long-term health so you can feel whole. To find a primary care provider near you, visit AdventHealth.com.