How to Navigate and Prevent Spring Allergies

Spring is a time to watch flowers bloom and listen to the familiar tune of chirping outside your window. Unfortunately for millions, it's also a season that brings runny noses, itchy eyes, and scratchy throats. Allergies can (and do) happen all year. When Spring begins, symptoms can start to interfere with your everyday life. If you're someone who experiences spring allergies, it's important to be informed about what causes them and how to manage them effectively.

What Cause Spring Allergies?

The biggest spring allergy trigger is pollen. Trees, grasses, and weeds release these tiny grains into the air to fertilize other plants. As a result, the immune system mistakenly sees the pollen as a danger and releases antibodies that attack the allergens. This ultimately leads the body to react with a runny nose, itchy eyes, and other symptoms that are all too familiar if you have allergies.

Spring Allergy Prevention Tips:

1. Identify Your Triggers The first step in managing spring allergies is to identify your triggers. Keep a journal of your symptoms and try to identify patterns in your allergies. This will help you determine which allergens you are most sensitive to and allow you to take steps to avoid or minimize your exposure to them. 2. Monitor Pollen Levels Pollen is a common trigger for spring allergies, and it is important to monitor pollen levels to avoid exposure. Check the pollen count in your area daily and try to plan outdoor activities for times when the pollen count is low. In general, pollen levels are highest in the early morning and on dry, windy days. 3. Keep Windows and Doors Closed While it may be tempting to open windows and doors to enjoy the fresh spring air, doing so can allow pollen and other allergens into your home. Keep windows and doors closed as much as possible and use air conditioning to cool your home instead.

4. Clean Your Home Regularly

Regular cleaning can help reduce allergens in your home. Dust and vacuum frequently, and wash bedding and curtains in hot water to kill dust mites. Use a damp cloth to clean surfaces instead of a dry one, as this will help trap allergens instead of spreading them around.

5. Consider Allergy Medications

Over-the-counter allergy medications, such as antihistamines and decongestants, can provide relief from allergy symptoms.

If you aren’t finding relief with over-the-counter medications and other prevention tips, it may be time to talk to your provider to discuss next steps. There may be another reason for your symptoms or other medication or treatments to consider. Allergy testing may also be needed to figure out what specifically you are allergic to so that you can avoid the allergen.

Need Help with Your Allergies?

Schedule an appointment with one of our primary care providers to see how you can get relief from your allergies.