Springtime means flowers and blooming trees. So, if you're one of the millions of people who have seasonal allergies, it also means sneezing, congestion, a runny nose and other bothersome symptoms. Seasonal allergies, also called hay fever and allergic rhinitis can make you miserable, affect daily life and worsen other conditions like asthma. Allergies can also happen at other times of year but is particularly impactful for many in the spring.
- One-third of adults had a seasonal allergy, eczema, or food allergy.
- Nearly 1 in 5 children (19%) have a seasonal allergy, 11% have eczema, and 6% have a food allergy
Seasonal allergies are extremely common, but there are numerous strategies that can help reduce or prevent your symptoms before they start. The first steps in prevention is to know what causes your allergies and how to control your environment.
Try these simple strategies to keep seasonal allergies under control:
Avoid allergy exposures during high exposure times
- Practice self-awareness of symptoms and what exposures preceded them – some common allergens include tree, flower and grass pollens, dust, molds, foods, etc.
- Monitor local pollen count, and limit your time outdoors during highest counts
- Drive with your windows up
- Keep indoor air clean, change air system filters regularly
- Use a high-quality air purifier, especially where you sleep
- Vacuum and dust frequently
- Avoid dietary triggers
Consider Natural Remedies - some natural supplements have antihistamine and immune supporting properties, and all of the below have been shown in some studies to reduce allergy symptoms.
- Quercitin – a plant pigment found in apples, onions and berries
- Zinc – known to strengthen the immune system, correlated with lower levels of allergy-related antibodies (IgE)
- Turmeric – has known anti-inflammatory properties
- Probiotics – supports healthy and regulated immunity
- Vitamin C – potent antioxidant, supporting immune system
- Bromelain – natural enzymes found in pineapple, anti-inflammatory properties, known to reduce airway inflammation
Use over the counter medications
- Antihistamines, non-drowsy – these work by blocking your immune system's histamine reaction to allergens – these include loratidine (claritin), cetirizine (Zyrtec)
- Traditional antihistamines – these are strong histamine blockers, but can be sedating for 50% – these include diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
- Decongestants – these work by constricting blood vessels to reduce swelling, inflammation and mucus within the nasal passages. These are stimulant drugs that work by increasing norepinephrine, they can keep you awake like caffeine and make you jittery. You need to be cautious if you have high blood pressure or heart disease. These include pseudoephedrine (sudafed) and phenylephrine.
- Saline nasal sprays – these are gentle salt solutions that can improve moisture in the nasal passages to help thin secretions and osmotically shrink swollen tissues.
- Steroid nasal sprays – these work by reducing the inflammatory response in the nasal passages within a few days. These include over the counter fluticasone (flonase).
Consult a physician specializing in Allergy
- If symptoms are not sufficiently managed by self-care, consult your personal doctor for guidance
- If allergies continue to worsen consider seeing a medical doctor specializing in Allergy Medicine – they can do blood and skin testing to help identify exactly what allergens are causing reactions and are able to do immunotherapy to retrain your immune system (allergy shots).
Resources
- CDC
- Seasonal Allergies: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment
- 10 Best Supplements and Herbs for Allergies - GoodRx
- Mayo Clinic
Life is precious and every day is a gift! Dr. Jerry
Jerry Strohkorb, MD MPH FACOEM