Spring means misery for many Published May 21, 2015 By Senior Airman Stephanie Serrano 19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs LITTLE ROCK AIR FORCE BASE, Ark. -- Imagine a bright sunny day with blue skies, and the temperature is just right. The smell of fresh cut grass and flowers blooming in the distance fills the air. The sound of busy bees buzzing around lets you know spring is here. It looks like a beautiful day, but then suddenly you begin to sneeze. There is an irritating itch in your eyes, and soon you become congested. Allergies are caused from an array of sources, but during spring, the pollen of various seasonal plants are usually the main cause. Pollen enters the body through the nose, mouth and eyes. For most people, the immune system views it as a mild substance and doesn't react, but for those with seasonal allergies, their immune system goes into defense mode and attacks the foreign substance releasing histamine. "Some people produce more histamine than others," said Staff Sgt. Ryan Duckett, a 19th Medical Operations Squadron allergy and immunizations technician. "This is why medicine prescribed is an antihistamine, to stop the body from continuing to release it." Symptoms can range from a runny nose and coughing to wheezing and hives. Most of the time, allergy symptoms can be prevented early by taking approved over-the-counter products to help with symptoms before they are present. "It's best to consult your primary care manager first," said Senior Airman Teresa Johnson, a 19th Medical Operations Squadron allergy and immunizations technician. "That way a person isn't taking the wrong medicine, technicians can assist in allergy tests or put in a referral to point someone in the correct direction." For appointments, call Central Appointments at (501) 987-8811. All eligible beneficiaries can call between 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, or visit MiCare at https://app.relayhealth.com/security/login/default.aspx.