Seasonal Allergies

Seasonal Allergies: Identifying and Managing Symptoms

Seasonal allergies, also known as hay fever and allergic rhinitis, can be an uncomfortable part of life for millions of people. These allergies can be caused by outdoor pollen, dust, mold spores, and other airborne allergens. Common symptoms of seasonal allergies include itchy and watery eyes, runny nose, sneezing, nasal congestion, and fatigue. Thankfully, identifying and managing these allergic responses can help many people enjoy the warmer days and outdoor activities all year long!

Identifying Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies

For those who struggle with ongoing allergy issues, the spring or fall can be a stressful time due to their heightened symptoms. To help identify and manage these uncomfortable reactions, ask yourself the following questions:

• Do my eyes itchy, watery, or swollen?
• Do I have nasal congestion or other sinus issues?
• Do I have any unusual fatigue or sneezing?

If the answer to any of these questions is yes, you may be experiencing seasonal allergies. It’s best to add these symptoms to your list of known allergies and create an action plan with a healthcare professional to manage them.

Managing Seasonal Allergies

Once you have identified that you are having an allergy flare-up, managing the symptoms offers relief to help you get back to enjoying your spring and fall activities. Typical treatments include over-the-counter medications as well as prescription medications and allergy shots. Other strategies can also help reduce allergy symptoms.

• Avoid outdoor activities in early morning or late afternoon, when pollen counts are known to be highest.
• Keep windows and doors closed to reduce the amount of outdoors allergens that come inside your home.
• Take a shower and change clothes after outdoor activities to remove pollen that might have stuck to you.
• If you have pets,bathe them often and stay up to date with their flea and tick preventatives to reduce the amount of allergens in your home.
• Vacuum your carpets and furniture weekly to reduce or remove any dust mites or other allergens that may have made their way in.

With the right combination of prevention and treatments, seasonal allergies can become easier to manage and less of a bother. Identifying and taking steps to reduce the sources of your discomfort is key to enjoying your outdoor activities and pursuits each spring and fall season.