Springtime Allergies

Written by: Paige Leal

Spring is more than just blooming flowers and warm weather, it is the time of allergies, bringing sneezing, congestion, and itchy eyes for millions of people across the country. What should be an enjoyable time outdoors might end up being uncomfortable and difficult to focus for many. Let’s learn about what causes seasonal allergies, how to recognize their symptoms, and how to manage them effectively so we can make a more enjoyable allergy season for individuals. 

Most notably, the main culprit of allergy season is pollen. Pollen is a fine powder released by plants as part of their reproductive cycle. Trees, grasses, and weeds are the primary sources, and each type releases pollen at different times of the year. In early spring, trees like oak, birch, and cedar begin to produce pollen. However, over the course of the season, entering summer, grasses take over as the main source. By late summer and fall, weeds like ragweed are a pretty prominent trigger. Weather and location also can play a role, with warm, dry, and windy days tending to spread pollen more easily, increasing exposure. At the same time, rain can temporarily reduce pollen levels by washing it out of the air. Additionally, people living in urban areas could experience more intense symptoms because of pollution interacting with allergens. 

The symptoms of seasonal allergies are vast and can range from mild to severe. They often align with those of a common cold, making the two very difficult to distinguish. Sneezing is one of the most recognizable signs, accompanied with a runny or stuffy nose. Many also experience itchy or watery eyes, which can become red and irritated. Other symptoms might be a scratchy throat, coughing, and even fatigue, especially when allergies interfere with sleep. Unlike a cold, however, allergies do not typically cause fever, and symptoms can persist for weeks or even months, depending on exposure to allergens. Because the discomfort is so long and difficult to rid, it can really impact individuals' daily lives and make it difficult to concentrate. 

Although, symptoms aren’t impossible to manage, there are many strategies to reduce the effects of allergy season. One way is to monitor daily pollen counts, which are actually available through allergy tracking apps available on your phone! Some of the best apps for monitoring pollen levels and managing allergies are Allergy Plus from Pollen.com, ZYRTEC AllergyCast, and Pollen Wise. These apps provide real-time data tailored to your location, forecasts, and information, making them super useful! When pollen counts are high, keeping windows closed or showering frequently (to remove pollen from skin and hair) can be really useful to reduce exposure. Additionally, pharmacies also offer over-the-counter medications to control symptoms. Antihistamines work to reduce sneezing, itching, and a runny nose, while decongestants can relieve nasal congestion. Common allergy medications include the following oral antihistamines: cetirizine (Zyrtec), loratadine (Claritin), and fexofenadine (Allegra). For some individuals, nasal sprays or eye drops provide targeted relief. In addition, using air purifiers with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters can improve indoor air quality by trapping allergens!

However, if symptoms are severe or persistent, consulting a healthcare professional is strongly advised. Doctors can recommend stronger medications or allergy testing to identify specific triggers, helping people find better targeted ways to manage symptoms. In some situations, immunotherapy may be an option for gradually reducing sensitivity to allergens. (Allergy immunotherapy is a long-term, preventive treatment that reduces sensitivity to allergens. such as pollen, pet dander, or venom, by gradually increasing the dose. Overall, though allergies can be difficult to deal with, its important to make the best of the spring time by learning how to manage them to enjoy the sunny weather.