Spring Allergies: Symptoms and Relief

• Spring allergies occur due to pollen from trees, grass, and weeds.
• Symptoms include sneezing, itchy eyes, congestion, and fatigue.
• Common triggers include oak, maple, and birch pollen.
• Treatments range from antihistamines to nasal sprays and allergy shots.
• Reduce symptoms by limiting outdoor exposure and improving indoor air quality.

What Are Spring Allergies?

Spring allergies, also known as seasonal allergic rhinitis, occur when the immune system overreacts to airborne pollen. This reaction leads to inflammation in the nasal passages, eyes, and throat. The severity of symptoms depends on pollen levels, weather conditions, and individual sensitivity.

• Tree Pollen – Oak, maple, and birch pollen are common triggers.
• Grass Pollen – Peaks later in spring and early summer.
• Mold Spores – Thrive in damp environments and increase with humidity.

In Illinois, allergy season typically starts in March and lasts until late fall, with oak, maple, and birch pollen peaking in spring.

Common Symptoms of Spring Allergies

• Sneezing – Sudden, repetitive sneezing due to nasal irritation.
• Runny or Stuffy Nose – Inflammation causes congestion and excess mucus production.
• Itchy Eyes, Nose, and Throat – Pollen exposure leads to irritation and discomfort.
• Watery Eyes – Increased tear production as the body tries to flush out allergens.
• Fatigue – Allergies can cause sleep disturbances and daytime tiredness.

How to Prevent Spring Allergy Flare-Ups

Indoor Allergy Prevention

• Keep Windows Closed – Prevent pollen from entering your home.
• Use HEPA Filters – Air purifiers can reduce airborne allergens.
• Shower After Being Outside – Rinse off pollen from skin and hair.
• Wash Bedding Weekly – Prevent allergens from accumulating in your sheets.

Outdoor Allergy Prevention

• Check Pollen Counts – Stay indoors on high-pollen days.
• Wear Sunglasses – Protect your eyes from pollen exposure.
• Avoid Morning Walks – Pollen levels are highest in the early hours.
• Change Clothes After Going Outside – Prevent pollen from spreading indoors.

Spring Allergy Treatments & Relief

Over-the-Counter Medications

• Antihistamines – Reduce sneezing, itching, and runny nose (e.g., Zyrtec, Claritin, Allegra).
• Nasal Sprays – Decrease inflammation and congestion (e.g., Flonase, Nasacort).
• Decongestants – Provide short-term relief for stuffy noses (e.g., Sudafed).

Prescription Treatments

• Stronger Nasal Steroids – Reduce severe congestion and inflammation (e.g., Nasonex, Rhinocort).
• Prescription Antihistamines – Offer longer-lasting relief for sneezing and itching (e.g., Xyzal, Clarinex).
• Leukotriene Modifiers – Help manage both allergies and asthma by reducing inflammation (e.g., Singulair).
• Corticosteroid Pills – Used for short-term relief of severe allergy flare-ups (e.g., Prednisone).
• Anticholinergic Nasal Sprays – Reduce excessive nasal mucus and congestion (e.g., Atrovent).

Natural Remedies

• Saline Nasal Rinse – Clears nasal passages and removes allergens.
• Honey – May help build immunity to local pollen.
• Steam Therapy – Helps loosen mucus and relieve congestion.

When to Visit Vitality Urgent Care for Allergies

• Over-the-counter medications aren’t providing relief.
• Allergy symptoms interfere with daily life or sleep.
• You experience shortness of breath or wheezing.
• Symptoms last longer than two weeks.
• Sinus infections develop due to untreated allergies.
• You have severe reactions, such as facial swelling or difficulty breathing.
• Allergy-induced asthma symptoms worsen.

Get expert care and breathe easier this allergy season!

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