General information only. This is not medical advice. Always consult your pharmacist or physician before making changes to your medications or health routine.
Allergy Season Preparation
Seasonal allergies affect tens of millions of Americans every year. With the right preparation and treatment plan, most people can significantly reduce their symptoms and get through allergy season without it derailing their daily life.
What Causes Seasonal Allergies?
Seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever) is triggered by airborne allergens that vary by season. Tree pollen is the primary culprit in spring (February–May). Grass pollen peaks in late spring and early summer. Weed pollen — especially ragweed — dominates late summer and fall. Mold spores can be problematic in warm, damp conditions throughout the warmer months. Your immune system mistakenly identifies these harmless particles as threats and releases histamine, causing the familiar symptoms.
Common Symptoms
- Sneezing — often in rapid, repeated bursts.
- Runny or stuffy nose with clear, watery discharge.
- Itchy, watery, or red eyes (allergic conjunctivitis).
- Itchy throat, roof of mouth, or ears.
- Postnasal drip leading to cough or sore throat.
- Fatigue — often underappreciated as an allergy symptom.
- Worsening asthma symptoms in people with allergic asthma.
Reducing Exposure
- 1Check daily pollen counts — many weather apps and websites report local pollen levels. Plan outdoor activities for lower-count days.
- 2Keep windows closed during high pollen periods and use air conditioning.
- 3Shower and change clothes after spending time outdoors — pollen clings to hair, skin, and clothing.
- 4Wear sunglasses outdoors to reduce eye exposure.
- 5Avoid outdoor activity in the morning when pollen counts are typically highest.
- 6Use a HEPA air purifier indoors, especially in the bedroom.
- 7Dry laundry indoors during high pollen season rather than on a clothesline.
Over-the-Counter Treatment Options
- Second-generation antihistamines (cetirizine/Zyrtec, loratadine/Claritin, fexofenadine/Allegra): Non-drowsy options for sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. Most effective when taken consistently, not just when symptoms flare.
- Nasal corticosteroid sprays (fluticasone/Flonase, triamcinolone/Nasacort): The most effective OTC treatment for nasal symptoms. Takes 1–2 weeks of regular use to reach full effect — start before your season begins.
- Nasal antihistamine sprays: Faster-acting than oral antihistamines for nasal symptoms.
- Decongestants (pseudoephedrine, phenylephrine): Relieve congestion but do not address the allergic response. Not recommended for long-term use or for people with high blood pressure.
- Antihistamine eye drops: Effective for allergic conjunctivitis.
When to See a Doctor
- OTC medications are not providing adequate relief.
- Symptoms are significantly affecting sleep, work, or daily activities.
- You develop sinus infections repeatedly during allergy season.
- You have asthma that worsens during allergy season.
- You are interested in allergy testing or immunotherapy (allergy shots or sublingual drops), which can provide long-term desensitization.
Starting nasal steroid sprays 1–2 weeks before your typical allergy season begins — rather than waiting for symptoms — makes a significant difference in how well they work. Ask your pharmacist which product is right for your symptom profile.