Seasonal Allergy
Seasonal allergies are allergy symptoms that occur during certain times of the year, usually when outdoor molds release their spores, and trees, grasses, and weeds release tiny pollen particles into the air to fertilize other plants. Seasonal allergies also called hay fever and allergic rhinitis can make you miserable.
Symptoms of seasonal allergies
- Runny nose and nasal congestion
- Watery or itchy eyes
- Sneezing
- Cough
- Itchy nose, roof of mouth or throat
- Sinus pressure and facial pain
- Swollen, blue-colored skin under the eyes (allergic shiners)
- Decreased sense of smell or taste
Reduce your exposure to allergy triggers
To reduce your exposure to the things that triggers your allergy signs and symptoms (allergens):
- Stay indoors on dry, windy days — the best time to go outside is after a good rain, which helps clear pollen from the air.
- Delegate lawn mowing, weed pulling and other gardening chores that stir up allergens.
- Remove clothes you’ve worn outside; you may also want to shower to rinse pollen from your skin and hair.
- Don’t hang laundry outside — pollen can stick to sheets and towels.
- Wear a dust mask if you do outside chores
Treatment of seasonal allergies
Various over-the-counter or prescription medications offer relief. Some of them are:
- Antihistamines – These medications counter the effects of histamine, the substance that makes eyes water and noses itch and causes sneezing during allergic reactions
- Nasal steroids – These anti-inflammatory sprays help decrease inflammation, swelling, and mucus production
- Decongestants – Available in capsule and spray form, decongestants thin nasal secretions and can reduce swelling and sinus discomfort
- Immunotherapy – Immunotherapy (allergy shots) might provide relief for patients who don’t find relief with antihistamines or nasal steroids.
