Battling Seasonal Allergies? Tips for Relief and Understanding Triggers 

Did you know that more than 81 million Americans are affected by allergies each year? (2) Allergy season is in full swing, affecting people of all ages, from infants to the elderly, causing discomfort for many. Many people find themselves struggling with sneezing, itchy eyes, and congestion, making it difficult to enjoy the beautiful weather.

What are seasonal allergies?

Seasonal allergies – also known as hay fever – happen when your immune system reacts to environmental allergens like pollen. (1)  When your immune system encounters an allergen, it triggers a response that releases histamines, leukotrienes, and prostaglandins — chemicals that cause allergy symptoms. (3) 

Symptoms of Allergies

Allergy symptoms can vary from person to person. Here are the most common ones (4):

• Sneezing
• Itchy eyes
• Coughing
• Congestion
• Fatigue
• Post-nasal drip
• Swollen eyes

Common Triggers of Allergies

Spring allergies typically start in February and can last until early summer. (1) Tree pollen and grass pollen are the most common triggers for allergies occurring in the spring. (4) However, allergies can also be triggered in the fall or occur year-round. Pollen levels are usually highest during the early hours of the morning. (1)

Effective Ways to Relieve Allergy Symptoms

While allergies are common worldwide, there are several ways to relieve symptoms and manage discomfort. Here are some tips:

1. Stay indoors when the weather is windy. Wind can pick up pollen and blow it directly into your sinuses. (5)
2. Don’t mow your lawn during peak pollen season. (5)
3. Immediately take your clothes off and wash them after being outdoors for an extended amount of time. (5)
4. Take oral antihistamines, use eye drops, try a nasal spray, and wash your hands/face after being outside. 
5. Learn how local honey may help relieve allergy symptoms in this article exploring its many benefits.
6. If you have a dog, bathe them regularly during pollen season to reduce pollen tracked indoors.
7. Try and keep doors/windows closed during the night to avoid pollen traveling indoors. (5)
8. Use a dehumidifier to help keep indoor air dry and reduce allergens. (5)

When to see a doctor 

If home remedies aren’t providing relief, consider scheduling a visit with your primary care provider. They can help you explore over-the-counter medications and recommend appropriate treatment options based on your symptoms. If these options aren’t effective, your provider can refer you to an allergy specialist for further testing to pinpoint specific triggers. In some cases, immunotherapy—commonly known as allergy shots—may be recommended to help manage symptoms long-term. (5) 

If you have pre-existing conditions like asthma, allergies can sometimes make symptoms worse, so don’t hesitate to reach out for care. UNC Health Appalachian offers same-day clinic visits, making it easy to be seen quickly by a provider.

References

1. American College of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology. (2017) Seasonal Allergies. https://acaai.org/allergies/allergic-conditions/seasonal-allergies/ 
2. Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. (2024) Allergy Facts. https://aafa.org/allergies/allergy-facts/
3. Yale Medicine. Seasonal Allergies (Allergic Rhinitis) https://www.yalemedicine.org/conditions/seasonal-allergies
4. Mayo Clinic. (2024) Hay fever. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hay-fever/symptoms-causes/syc-20373039
5. Mayo Clinic. (2024) Seasonal allergies: Nip them in the bud. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hay-fever/in-depth/seasonal-allergies/art-20048343