Allergy Solutions for All Seasons: Managing Hay Fever and Seasonal Allergies

For many people, spring and fall can be very pleasant seasons. The warm days and cool nights seem ideal for all sorts of outdoor activities as open windows and screen doors fill our homes with fresh air of the changing season. Unfortunately, for allergy sufferers, exposure to pollen can make the outdoors a hostile environment that can make us miserable.  The culprit? In most cases — pollen.

If you find yourself sneezing uncontrollably, battling a runny or stuffy nose, or experiencing itchy, watery eyes as the seasons change, you’re likely among the millions suffering from hay fever, also known as seasonal allergies or seasonal allergic rhinitis. While the term “hay fever” might conjure images of feverish illness, rest assured that unless a secondary infection is present, allergies typically don’t cause a fever.

About the Author of this Guide & The Importance of Seeing a Board-certified Allergist

Andrew E. Davidson, MD, of Allergy Partners of Charleston is a board-certified in allergy, asthma, and immunology for both pediatrics and adults, and one of the premier allergists in the southeast. He has been helping families in the Lowcountry of South Carolina overcome the challenges of seasonal allergies for decades.

So What is a Board-certified Allergist?

Here’s Dr. Davidson:

“A board-certified Allergist is a physician who has special training for at least two years in the diagnosis and treatment of allergic diseases. The American Board of Allergy and Immunology provides tis certification and monitors ongoing continuing medical education for maintenance of certification. Doctors with this type of training and certification are best suited to effectively treat seasonal allergies with minimal side effects. The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology has a website where anyone can research the credentials of board-certified allergists in their community.

What Triggers Your Seasonal Misery? The Culprits Behind Hay Fever

The discomfort of seasonal allergies is triggered by exposure to tiny airborne particles released by various plants during their pollination periods. These microscopic grains are essential for plant reproduction but can wreak havoc on sensitive immune systems. The primary offenders include:

• Spring: Tree pollen is usually the first to make its appearance, often starting earlier in southern regions and later in more northern climates.
• Late Summer and Fall: Weed pollen takes center stage, with ragweed being a particularly notorious trigger. The ragweed season typically kicks off in August in the northern US, arriving later in September in southern states.
• Spring and Fall: Grass pollen can be a persistent problem. While it typically peaks in late spring in northern areas, some regions experience a second grass pollen season in the fall, and in the South, grass pollen can be present for much of the year.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies

The symptoms of hay fever can range from mild to severely disruptive, impacting your daily life and enjoyment of the outdoors. Common signs include:

• Frequent sneezing
• Runny nose
• Postnasal drip
• Stuffy nose
• Itching of the nose, eyes, throat, and roof of the mouth
• Watery and red eyes

In more severe cases, seasonal allergies can lead to:

• Sinus blockage and resulting headaches
• Cough, often triggered by postnasal drainage
• Swollen and inflamed eyelids

Taking Control: Managing Your Hay Fever and Seasonal Allergies

The good news is that you don’t have to suffer in silence. Effective strategies exist to manage your seasonal allergies and reclaim your enjoyment of spring and fall. These approaches generally fall into three categories:

1. Minimizing Pollen Exposure:

• Limit outdoor time: Especially during peak pollen times, which are often in the morning and on windy days.
• Keep doors and windows closed: Create a pollen-free sanctuary indoors. Use air conditioning with clean filters.
• Shower after being outside: Wash pollen from your hair and skin to prevent it from lingering and causing irritation.
• Stay informed: Monitor local pollen counts. The National Allergy Bureau website of the American Academy of Asthma, Allergy and Immunology (pollen.aaaai.org) provides valuable information to help you plan your activities and take necessary precautions.

2. Over-the-Counter and Prescription Medications:

• Antihistamines: Newer, non-drowsy antihistamines like cetirizine (Zyrtec), fexofenadine (Allegra), loratadine (Claritin), and levocetirizine (Xyzal) can effectively relieve sneezing, runny nose, and itching. These are readily available without a prescription.
• Nasal Corticosteroid Sprays: Low-dose corticosteroid nasal sprays such as fluticasone (Flonase), mometasone (Nasonex), triamcinolone (Nasacort), and budesonide (Rhinocort) are safe and highly effective in reducing nasal congestion, runny nose, and sneezing. They work best when used regularly.
• Allergy Eye Drops: Over-the-counter and prescription eye drops specifically formulated for allergy relief can soothe itchy, watery eyes.

3. Allergen Immunotherapy:

• For a more long-term solution, consider allergen immunotherapy. This involves gradually exposing your body to small amounts of your specific allergy triggers to build tolerance over time.
• Immunotherapy is available as allergy injections or sublingual (under-the-tongue) tablets. In the USA, tablets are currently available for ragweed, grass, and dust mite allergies.
• Immunotherapy requires a commitment over several months but can significantly reduce allergy symptoms in the long run.

Don’t let hay fever and seasonal allergies keep you indoors when the weather is inviting. By understanding your triggers, implementing preventative measures, and exploring available treatments, you can effectively manage your symptoms and fully embrace the beauty of each season. If your allergy symptoms are severe or significantly impacting your quality of life, consulting with an allergist is always a good idea to develop a personalized management plan.