Introduction
Spring season is a time of renewal, with pleasant weather, new leaves and blooming flowers. It is a welcome change from the extremely cold, harsh winter months. However, despite being the queen of seasons, spring brings with it a few health concerns.
In this blog, we will discuss the common ailments of the spring season and how to prevent and treat them.
Five most common ailments associated with the Spring season
Allergies
Allergies are a common springtime ailment that occur due to the pollens shed by the greens. The condition affects millions of people worldwide. Allergies usually occur when the immune system overreacts to harmless foreign substances in the environment, such as pollen, dust, bee venom or pet dander. Symptoms of allergies can include sneezing, itchy eyes, chest congestion, and runny or blocked nose.
To prevent allergies, it’s important to limit exposure to allergens. This may include staying indoors on high-pollen days, keeping windows and doors closed, and using air filters to reduce indoor allergens. Over-the-counter antihistamines and decongestants can help relieve symptoms, but it’s important to talk to a doctor before starting any new medication.
Asthma
Similarly like allergies, asthma attacks also rise during the springtime due to change in temperatures and pollen grains in the air. Asthma is a long-term respiratory condition that affects the airways, causing them to narrow and swell. Asthma symptoms can be triggered by a variety of factors, including allergens, exercise, and stress. Symptoms of asthma can include difficulty in breathing, wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.
To prevent asthma symptoms, it’s important to identify and avoid triggers whenever possible. This may include staying indoors on high-pollen days, using air filters to reduce indoor allergens, and avoiding exercise in cold weather. Inhalers and other medications can help relieve symptoms and prevent asthma attacks, but it’s important to talk to a doctor before starting any new medication.
Sunburn
Even though it’s only spring and cool outside, the UV rays become more intense during spring season. Experts warn that increased exposure to UV rays can lead to a nasty sunburn. Sunburn occurs when the skin is damaged by UV radiation from the sun. Symptoms of sunburn can include redness, swelling, pain, and blisters.
To prevent sunburn, it’s important to wear protective clothing, such as hats and long sleeves, and to use sunscreen with a high SPF, when outdoors for more than a few minutes at a time. It’s also important to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun during peak hours, typically from 10 am to 4 pm. If you do get sunburned, apply cool compresses to the affected area and take over-the-counter pain medication as needed.
Poison Ivy
Spring is also a peak time for poison ivy, a common springtime ailment, caused by contact with the leaves, stems, or roots of poison ivy plants. Poison ivy can cause a red, itchy rash that can last for several weeks. In severe cases, the rash may form blisters or crusts.
To prevent poison ivy, it’s important to learn to identify poison ivy plants and steer clear of areas where you know the plant grows. Wear long sleeves and pants when working outdoors to avoid contact with them, and wash any exposed skin as soon as possible if you do come into contact with poison ivy. Over-the-counter creams and ointments can help relieve symptoms, but in severe cases, prescription medication may be necessary.
Seasonal Depression
Seasonal depression, also known as seasonal affective disorder (SAD), is a type of depression that occurs due to changes in seasons and begins and ends at about the same times every year. Research has demonstrated that most people experience SAD during the fall and winter months. However, some people may also experience SAD during the spring and summer months. Symptoms of SAD can include sadness, anxiety, irritability, and fatigue.
To prevent and treat seasonal depression, it’s important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep. Spending time outdoors in natural light can also help improve mood. If symptoms persist, talk to a doctor, as prescription medication or therapy may be necessary.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the sparking spring—with its warmer temperatures, longer days, budding trees, and beautiful blooms—can also be a harbinger of a whole list of illnesses that can impact our health and well-being. Allergies, asthma, sunburn, poison ivy, and seasonal depression are all potential health concerns that can arise during the spring season.
Fortunately, there are steps we can take to prevent and treat these conditions. Avoiding exposure to allergens, wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are all important strategies for preventing and managing these common ailments.
If symptoms persist or worsen, it’s important to seek medical attention to determine the best course of treatment. With proper care and attention, we can enjoy the beauty and warmth of spring while maintaining our health and well-being.
