Key Takeaways (TL;DR):
- “Hay fever” occurs when the immune system overreacts to airborne pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds, or to mold spores.
- Beyond sneezing, allergies can cause itchy eyes, sore throats, dark under-eye circles, and even severe asthma attacks.
- Healthcare providers use skin prick/scratch or blood tests to pinpoint specific allergy triggers, which is essential for creating a targeted treatment plan.
- Reducing exposure to allergens is key to finding relief. This includes washing hair after being outdoors, cleaning surfaces regularly, and keeping windows closed during high pollen counts.
- Allergy treatments range from OTC antihistamines and nasal sprays to long-term solutions like immunotherapy (allergy shots) which build resistance to specific allergy triggers.
As the cycle of nature renews and spring unfolds, seasonal allergies emerge. Millions are affected each year as flowers begin to bloom, causing the onset of congestion and sneezing.
However, it can be difficult to pinpoint exactly what is causing this allergic reaction and how to treat it once a cause is identified.
In this post, we’ll explore seasonal allergies, what their signs and symptoms look like, treatment options, and when to seek additional help.
What are Common Seasonal Allergies?
Most commonly known as “hay fever,” allergic rhinitis happens when pollen becomes airborne in the spring and releases tiny grains to fertilize plants.
Grass, weeds and trees all carry pollen. This pollen release triggers a reaction in the immune system for those who are sensitive to it. The immune system overreacts by making Immunoglobulin E antibodies, which induces typical allergy symptoms.
Mold is also sometimes classified as a seasonal allergy, as the release of spores is often linked to asthma and creates a similar experience in those who are allergic.
Signs and Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies
Seasonal allergy symptoms can include any or all of the following:
- Itchy, watery eyes
- Postnasal drip
- Sneezing
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Congestion
- Dark under-eye circles
- Hives
- Sore throat
- Ear discomfort/blockage
- Headache
- Shortness of breath
- Asthma attack (in the most severe cases)
Of course, anyone who has seasonal allergies may experience their own unique constellation of symptoms. Not only will the symptoms vary by person, but the severity can differ as well.
About Allergy Tests and Treatments
If you’re not sure what is triggering your allergy symptoms, it may be time to see a medical professional to get an allergy test.
For the allergy test, the provider will likely perform a skin prick or scratch test, where they prick or scratch your forearm or back, to determine which allergy-causing substances cause a reaction. Alternately they could draw blood to detect and measure allergen-specific antibodies in your system. Both methods are safe and frequently used to determine how best to treat your specific symptoms.
Once you know what’s causing your symptoms, you and your healthcare provider can determine the best seasonal allergy treatments to provide relief.
Common Treatments for Seasonal Allergies
Common treatments for seasonal allergies include:
Limiting exposure. If you can identify where your triggers occur, you can do your best to minimize contact with them by avoiding that area. That may mean refraining from certain outdoor activities or keeping doors and windows closed when the pollen count is elevated.
Wearing a mask. If you must go outdoors, purchase an inexpensive dust mask from your local pharmacy or drugstore to breathe through while you are exposed to potential allergens.
Bathing after exposure. When you are unable to limit exposure to allergens, washing them off your body and out of your hair are crucial to keeping symptoms at bay.
Cleaning surfaces vigilantly. The grains and spores that cause allergic reactions can travel and land on indoor surfaces. Be sure to vacuum and dust regularly to avoid buildup of the offensive particles.
Laundering clothes and bedding often. Perhaps more often than you would other times of year, be sure to wash sheets, pillowcases and clothing that may contain allergen particles transferred by your body or hair.
Using a dehumidifier. If mold is a trigger for you, reducing the moisture in the air will help to considerably reduce the chances of it growing nearby.
Taking over-the-counter medicines. There are many decongestants, antihistamines, eye drops and nasal sprays that can bring lasting relief for a number of common seasonal allergy symptoms.
Taking prescription medicines. For more severe cases, an allergist or immunologist can prescribe steroid nasal sprays and other stronger medicines that can’t be obtained over the counter.
Exploring natural remedies. Some find relief from acupuncture, eating local honey and adding specific herbs to meals.
Getting Immunotherapy. With this method of treatment, your allergist will administer a regular series of shots to make your immune system more resistant to the allergens.
Where to Seek Medical Help for Allergies
If you’re not sure exactly what you’re allergic to, or can’t find relief using recommended at-home treatments, the Ear, Nose & Throat/ Allergy specialists at Western Washington Medical Group can provide comprehensive testing and treatment options to relieve your allergy symptoms. Request an appointment with our ENT clinic today.