After a long, cold winter inside, the warm spring weather invites us to get back outdoors. But, if you’re allergic to pollen, enjoying the sun and breeze will come at a price. You won’t be able to admire the beauty of the new green leaves or inhale the scent of freshly cut grass without having a sneezing fit. Don’t worry, though. We’ll help you better understand and manage your seasonal allergies so you can enjoy Mother Nature in comfort.

What is an Allergic Reaction?

Your immune system looks out for your health every moment of your life. When it detects a threat, it springs into action to defend your body. But, sometimes, it can get a little overzealous.

Though well-meaning, your immune system can’t always tell the difference between a genuine attack and a harmless substance. This lack of judgment can result in an overreaction to benign things in nature, like pollen. In the spring, most pollen comes from trees and grass. 

When your immune system kicks into gear to defeat the perceived foreign matter, you experience an allergic reaction. Your body’s response to pollen is referred to as nasal allergies or hay fever (despite no hay being involved). As part of the reaction, your body produces the inflammation chemical histamine. Histamine is the culprit behind all of the seasonal allergy symptoms you feel.

Allergy Symptoms

Allergy Symptoms

While your experience may vary, here are some of the most common allergy symptoms:

As an allergy sufferer, you could be more prone to ear and sinus infections. If you have asthma, seasonal allergies can make you more likely to have an attack.

Allergy Diagnosis

Allergy diagnosis is usually straightforward and based on your symptoms. However, your ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor may want to administer an allergy test to determine which specific substances you’re allergic to. Your ENT doctor will also examine you to ensure that your symptoms aren’t caused by other conditions like polyps or a deviated septum.

Treatment Options for Allergies

Treatment Options for Allergies

Unless you have a severe asthma attack due to your immune system’s response, seasonal allergies aren’t life-threatening. That means you can usually treat the condition at home with over-the-counter antihistamines, decongestants, nasal rinses, and eye drops. But, if your symptoms don’t subside, your ENT doctor can prescribe a stronger medication, like steroids.

Depending on your circumstances, your doctor may also recommend immunotherapy. Immunotherapy intentionally exposes you to the allergen in increasing amounts over time. The ultimate goal is to make your immune system ignore the substance. If that happens, your allergy is cured!

Allergy Management Tips

In addition to medical intervention, implement these tips to limit your exposure to pollen and lessen your symptoms:

  • Shut your doors and windows to keep pollen outside.
  • Use HEPA filters in your home and change them regularly.
  • Wear a mask outside when the pollen count is high.
  • Take a shower as soon as you go inside your house.
  • Avoid gardening and landscaping tasks.

Pro Tip: Check the pollen count in your area each day before you go out.

Final Thoughts

Seasonal pollen allergies can put a damper on the springtime outdoor festivities. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to manage – and even cure – your immune system’s overreaction. But, if you’re still struggling to keep your seasonal pollen allergies under control, please contact us. We’re here to help you feel good and breathe well – in any weather!