Seasonal allergies can be a real nuisance, causing symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, a runny nose, and a persistent cough that can linger for weeks or even months. In New York City, spring marks the beginning of tree pollen season, followed by grass pollen in the summer and weed pollen in the late summer and fall. The changing climate, combined with crosswinds carrying pollen from different regions, has made allergy symptoms more unpredictable than ever before.
When you inhale pollen, your immune system goes into overdrive, releasing histamine and other inflammatory mediators that result in common allergy symptoms. Unlike a cold, which typically resolves within a couple of weeks, allergies can persist for much longer, starting with a runny nose and progressing to nasal congestion, sinusitis, fatigue, and headaches.
But fear not, you don’t have to lock yourself indoors to manage your allergies effectively. As someone who struggles with allergies myself, I know the importance of starting medications early and using them consistently throughout the season. Let me walk you through some essential tips and tricks to help you combat seasonal allergies.
Over-the-Counter Medicines
The first line of defense against seasonal allergies can often be found at your local pharmacy without needing a prescription. While many people turn to antihistamines first, a nasal spray should actually be your daily go-to. Steroid nasal sprays work by reducing swelling and inflammation in the nasal passages, providing long-term relief from congestion. It’s important to use them consistently for several days or up to two weeks to experience the full benefits.
When choosing a nasal spray, opt for ones containing fluticasone or triamcinolone for optimal results. Remember to angle the spray towards your ear for better absorption and consider using nasal rinses to flush out allergens and irritants from your nasal passages.
Oral antihistamines in liquid or pill form can offer quick relief from seasonal allergy symptoms. For children with severe allergies, combining antihistamines with a nasal spray can be even more effective. Look for non-sedating antihistamines like cetirizine, levocetirizine, loratadine, and fexofenadine, which typically start working within 30 minutes and provide 24 hours of relief.
Eye Care and Beyond
For itchy, watery eyes, consider incorporating an allergy eye drop into your routine. Olopatadine can help prevent histamine release, alleviating eye irritation. Eye drops come in various concentrations, with higher concentrations recommended for children with severe symptoms.
In addition to medications, lifestyle adjustments can play a significant role in managing seasonal allergies. Keep track of local pollen counts to minimize exposure during peak times, and consider using apps like Allergy Plus to monitor air quality. On days with high pollen levels, opt for indoor activities and remember to take your medications, including asthma inhalers, if needed.
After spending time outdoors, be sure to bathe or shower immediately, wash your hair, and change into clean clothes to prevent spreading allergens indoors. Wearing an N95 or surgical mask can help block pollen, while sunglasses and a hat can prevent pollen from sticking to your hair. Running an air purifier in your home can also provide an extra layer of protection against allergens.
If your symptoms persist despite using these strategies, it may be time to consult an allergist to identify the root cause of your allergies. Allergy testing can provide valuable information on specific allergens triggering your symptoms, leading to more targeted treatment options. Remember, with the right medications, lifestyle adjustments, and expert guidance, seasonal allergies don’t have to dominate your life.
Dr. Kanwaljit (Rupam) Brar, a pediatric allergy specialist at Hassenfeld Children’s Hospital at NYU Langone, emphasizes the importance of proactive measures to combat seasonal allergies. With her expertise and guidance, you can navigate allergy season with confidence and ease. Don’t let allergies hold you back—take control of your symptoms and enjoy the changing seasons to the fullest.
