Spring Allergies: Symptoms and Relief Tips

Do you suffer from spring allergies?

Spring brings blooming flowers and green trees. Many people welcome the change. But for others, spring allergies bring sneezing, watery eyes and a stuffy nose. If spring allergy symptoms slow you down, you’re not alone. HealthSpring is here to help you understand common allergy symptoms in spring and simple tips for managing seasonal allergies as you age.

What you should know about spring allergies

If you suffer from spring allergies, it’s important to know that:

• Spring allergies are often triggered by pollen from trees and grasses.

• Common symptoms include sneezing, itchy eyes, congestion and a runny nose.

• Seasonal allergies in older adults can change over time.

• Checking pollen levels and keeping indoor air clean may help.

Getting relief from spring allergies isn’t about making one big change. Small changes can help make a difference in how you feel.

Why spring allergies happen

Trees, grass and ragweed release tiny bits of pollen into the air in spring. When you breathe them in, your immune system may react. Doctors call this allergic rhinitis, or hay fever.¹

Common allergy symptoms in spring may include:

• Sneezing

• A runny or stuffy nose

• Itchy or watery eyes

• A scratchy throat

• Mild tiredness

If you’re managing allergies as you age, symptoms may feel different than they did years ago. Some people notice more sinus pressure or congestion. Symptoms may be worse if you have asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Steps that may help reduce symptoms of spring allergies

Check the pollen count

Pollen levels often rise on dry, windy days and in the early morning.

These tips may help:

• Check the daily pollen forecast online or in your local weather report.

• Limit time outdoors when pollen counts are high.

• Plan walks or errands after rain, when pollen levels are lower.

When pollen counts are high, some people take medication before their symptoms start. Talk to your doctor first before trying this approach.

Keep indoor air clean

You can’t remove all pollen from your home, but you can help lower how much gets inside with these tips:

• Keep windows closed on high pollen days.

• Use air conditioning instead of opening windows.

• Change clothes and shower after spending time outside.

• A vacuum with a HEPA filter may help trap small bits of pollen.

• Or try a small air purifier in your bedroom.

Use medications carefully

You can buy over-the-counter medicines to help with spring allergies. These may include antihistamines or nasal sprays.

If you are older and have allergies, talk with your doctor or pharmacist before starting a new medicine. Some allergy medicines can cause drowsiness or raise blood pressure. They may also interact with other medicines.²

If symptoms don’t improve after a few weeks, your doctor may suggest other options.

Try gentle nasal rinsing

Some people find relief by rinsing their nasal passages with saline, or salt water. This may help flush out pollen and thin the mucus.³

You can buy nasal rinse products without a prescription. Again, talk with your doctor first to be sure it’s right for you.

No matter which nasal rinse product you use, follow the directions. Use it with distilled or bottled water only.

When to get medical care

Most seasonal allergies are uncomfortable but manageable. However, contact your doctor if you notice:

• Wheezing or shortness of breath

• Symptoms that don’t improve

• Facial pain or fever

These may be signs of something other than simple allergies.

Final thoughts from Dr. T

Spring allergies can make the season harder. Small changes can help. Check pollen levels, keep the air inside your home clean, and talk to your doctor when needed. These small steps may help you feel more comfortable.

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