(Courtesy of Parkview Pharmacy) Seasonal allergies (also known as hay fever) are allergic reactions that occur at specific times of the year, usually when outdoor molds release spores, and trees, grasses and weeds release pollen into the air.
Causes of Seasonal Allergies
The immune system overreacts to certain airborne substances that are usually harmless. Common triggers include:
- Spring: Tree pollen (oak, birch, maple, cedar)
- Summer: Grass pollen (Bermuda, Timothy, Kentucky bluegrass)
- Fall: Weed pollen (ragweed, sagebrush)
- Year-Round (perennial allergies): Dust mites, pet dander, mold, cockroaches
Symptoms
- Sneezing
- Runny or stuffy nose (nasal congestion)
- Itchy nose, throat, eyes, ears
- Watery, red or puffy eyes (allergic conjunctivitis)
- Postnasal drip
- Cough
- Fatigue
- Headaches (sometimes sinus-related)
In people with asthma, allergies can also trigger asthma symptoms like wheezing and shortness of breath.
Diagnosis
- History and physical exam
- Allergy skin prick test: Small amounts of allergens are pricked into the skin to test for reactions.
- Blood test (specific IgE test): Measures immune response to specific allergens.
Treatment Options
- Avoidance
- Monitor pollen forecasts and stay indoors when counts are high.
- Keep windows and doors closed.
- Use air conditioning with a HEPA filter.
- Shower and change clothes after being outside.
- Wear sunglasses and masks during peak pollen seasons.
- Medications
Over-the-Counter (OTC):
Antihistamines (Relieve sneezing, runny nose and itching)
- Loratadine (Claritin)
- Cetirizine (Zyrtec)
- Fexofenadine (Allegra)
- Diphenhydramine (Benadryl — sedating)
- Nasal corticosteroids
Best for Nasal Congestion and Inflammation
- Fluticasone (Flonase)
- Budesonide (Rhinocort)
- Triamcinolone (Nasacort)
Decongestants
For temporary nasal congestion relief.
- Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed)
- Oxymetazoline nasal spray (Afrin — short-term use only to avoid rebound congestion)
Eye drops
- Ketotifen (Zaditor)
- Olopatadine (Pataday)
Prescription Options:
- Stronger antihistamines and corticosteroids
- Leukotriene receptor antagonists (Montelukast/Singulair)
- Combination sprays (azelastine + fluticasone)
- Allergy Immunotherapy (Desensitization)
For persistent, severe allergies unresponsive to medication.
- Allergy shots: Regular injections of small amounts of allergen to build tolerance over time.
- Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT): Allergen tablets (like for grass, ragweed, dust mite) placed under the tongue.
- Natural / Complementary Remedies
- Saline nasal irrigation: (e.g., with a neti pot or saline spray)
- Butterbur: Herbal remedy shown in some studies to reduce symptoms.
- Quercetin: A natural plant flavonoid with antihistamine properties.
- Local honey: Anecdotal support, though evidence is limited.
- HEPA air purifiers
Always consult a healthcare provider before starting herbal supplements, especially if on other medications.
Complications if Untreated
- Sinusitis (sinus infections)
- Asthma exacerbations
- Ear infections
- Poor sleep, fatigue, decreased quality of life
Prevention Tips
- Start allergy medications before pollen season begins.
- Keep track of pollen counts via weather apps or pollen-tracking services.
- Use high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters indoors.
- Clean air conditioning and heating systems regularly.
- Wash bedding frequently in hot water.
