Spring is the season of new beginnings, but for many people, it’s also the season of allergies. As plants start to bloom, pollen counts increase, triggering allergic reactions in millions of people.

If you suffer from spring allergies, it’s important to understand the causes, symptoms, and treatments so you can manage your symptoms and enjoy the season.

What Causes Spring Allergies?

Spring allergies are typically triggered by pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds. As the weather warms up, these plants begin to release pollen into the air.

When you breathe in the pollen, your body’s immune system sees it as a foreign invader and produces antibodies to fight it off. This triggers the release of histamine and other chemicals, which cause inflammation and allergy symptoms.

Common Spring Allergy Symptoms

Spring allergies can cause a wide range of symptoms, including:.

Sneezing
Runny nose
Nasal congestion
Itchy or watery eyes
Scratchy throat
Coughing
Fatigue

Diagnosing Spring Allergies

If you suspect you have spring allergies, it’s important to see a doctor for an accurate diagnosis. Your doctor may recommend allergy testing, which usually involves skin tests or blood tests.

These tests can help identify the specific allergens that are causing your symptoms.

Managing Spring Allergies

There are many ways to manage spring allergies, including:.

Avoiding triggers: Try to stay indoors on high-pollen days, keep windows and doors closed, and avoid gardening and other outdoor activities that can expose you to pollen.
Using air filters: Invest in a high-quality air filter for your home to remove pollen and other allergens from the air.
Taking medications: There are many over-the-counter and prescription medications that can help relieve allergy symptoms, including antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal corticosteroids.
Immunotherapy: Allergy shots or sublingual immunotherapy can help desensitize your body to allergens over time, reducing or even eliminating your symptoms.

Preventing Spring Allergies

While you can’t completely prevent spring allergies, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing them. Some tips include:.

Keep your home clean and free of dust and mold
Wash your hands frequently to prevent the spread of germs
Eat a healthy diet and get plenty of sleep to support your immune system
Avoid smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke

When to See a Doctor

If your allergy symptoms are severe or don’t improve with treatment, it’s important to see a doctor. You may need more aggressive treatment or additional testing to identify the underlying cause of your symptoms.

The Bottom Line

Spring allergies can be a real nuisance, but with the right treatment and prevention strategies, you can manage your symptoms and enjoy the season.

Be sure to talk to your doctor if you’re experiencing severe or persistent symptoms, and don’t hesitate to seek medical help if you’re having trouble breathing or experiencing other serious symptoms.