Winter is still upon us, but spring is not far behind, bringing its share of blooming flowers and buzzing insects. It’s the season when many of us rejoice- but allergy sufferers sing a different tune. Itchy, sore, swollen throats, watery eyes, and stuffy noses plague them, preventing them from enjoying all the joys of spring.
Fortunately, there are ways to nip allergy symptoms in the bud so you don’t have to suffer. This article will explain how to relieve itchy throat from allergies and how to handle other symptoms so you can embrace spring in all its glory.
What are Allergies?
Allergies occur when a person’s immune system overreacts to allergens. It produces antibodies that travel to the cells that release histamine and other chemicals. The histamine release causes swelling in the nose and eyes and sneezing as it attempts to remove allergens from the body.
People can have seasonal allergies that occur in the spring, summer, and fall due to high levels of pollen and mold spores. Others have perennial allergies that last year-round due to dust mites, mold, pet dander, and cockroaches.
Some people wonder can allergies cause sore throat and, can allergies cause swollen lymph nodes. Sore throat is a common symptom typically related to postnasal drip. Lymph nodes can also swell while producing immune cells to fight off allergies.
Other common symptoms include:
- Stuffy, runny nose
- Itchy, watery, puffy eyes
- Sneezing
- Hives
- Postnasal drip
4 Quick Ways to Relieve Allergies
Fortunately, there are solutions for how to relieve itchy throat from allergies and reduce other symptoms. Common treatments include:
- OTC Remedies: Over-the-counter remedies include oral antihistamines, nasal sprays, and decongestants. Review their effects to determine which is best suited to your needs.
- Rinse Your Sinuses: Rinsing your sinuses can relieve nasal decongestion. You can purchase a neti pot kit with an irrigation device and saline solution or combine salty water and baking soda to make your solution.
- Alternative Treatments: Consider herbal remedies or dietary supplements if you prefer a treatment without side effects. Many believe butterbur and spirulina can reduce allergy symptoms.
- Prescription Treatments: You may consult a doctor if home remedies aren’t enough. They may prescribe potent medications or recommend immunotherapy, a desensitization treatment consisting of allergy shots and tablets.
Effective Allergy Relief Products
If you go the OTC route, choosing effective products is essential. Recommended items include:
- Boiron AllergyCalm Kids Allergy Relief: This homeopathic product relieves hay fever and upper respiratory allergy symptoms.
- Baraka Neti Pot Starter Kit: The Neti Pot Starter Kit will help rinse your sinuses. It contains a lead-free ceramic net pot, French Atlantic gray sea salt, and an instruction card.
- BioAllers Allergy Nasal Spray: This non-drowsy, homeopathic formula relieves sinus pressure, congestion, sneezing, and dry nasal passages.
- Zahler AllerBreez Immune Support: This product contains herbs and nutrients that support your immune system, minimizing allergy symptoms.
So, can allergies cause sore throat and swollen lymph nodes? Unfortunately, they can. But with the proper treatment, you will eliminate a runny nose, watery eyes, and all those other miserable allergy symptoms, and have a great spring.
FAQs
Can Allergies Cause Sore Throat?
Yes, allergies can cause a sore throat. The condition is primarily due to postnasal drip, which occurs when mucus from a congested nose drips down the back of the throat, irritating it and causing soreness.
Can Allergies Cause Swollen Lymph Glands?
Yes, allergies can trigger the lymph nodes to swell as they produce immune cells to fight off allergies. The condition is likely to occur in people with severe allergies. The swelling is typically temporary and should subside when exposure is reduced.
How to Relieve Itchy Throat from Allergies?
You can relieve an itchy throat by drinking water, broth, or herbal tea with honey and lemon. A humidifier will prevent your throat from dying out. Saltwater gargles and antihistamines also help.