*Originally published on March 31, 2022:
Now that we're entering the spring season, we're all itching to get outside and enjoy the warm weather, beautiful flowers, and outdoor events. But seasonal allergies can be a real downer to your plans. Nobody can enjoy themselves when suffering from watery eyes, a runny nose, and/or sneezing fits. This is why we've put together a list of the symptoms to look out for when it comes to springtime allergies, as well as some remedies that could help ease those symptoms.
Let's nip spring allergies in the bud! (And yes, pun very much intended.)
Spring Allergies: What Are the Symptoms?
Springtime allergies can include:
- Red and watery eyes
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
- Itchy eyes, nose, ears, and mouth
- Stuffy nose (congestion)
- Puffy eyes
- Post-nasal drip—when there's a sensation of mucus dripping down the back of the throat
- Hives (rare)
- Coughing, wheezing, or difficulty breathing
Spring Allergies: How to Nip Your Symptoms in the Bud?
*Please note: the following list of remedies is not extensive and may not work for everyone. Please consult your physician first.
- Limit Your Exposure
- One of the simplest ways to ease your symptoms is to reduce your exposure to the elements. If it's a windy day, stay inside so you don't expose yourself to pollen.
- If you must go outside, remove/replace the clothes you wore outside and then shower to rinse any pollen from your skin and hair.
- It's also a good idea to stay on top of the local pollen counts, so you can limit time outside when pollen levels are high.
- Saline Rinse
- Not only can saline rinses help relieve a stuffy nose, but they can also clear your nostrils and sinuses of any allergens.
- The best part is that while several saline rinses on the market don't require a prescription, you can also make your own right at home!
- Over-the-Counter Medicines
- From Oral antihistamines (Claritin) to decongestants (Afrin) and even combinations of the two (Allegra-D), there are a ton of non-prescription medicines that can help alleviate your spring allergies. Some come in the form of nasal sprays, too.
- Acupuncture
- According to a study in 2017, people who underwent acupuncture therapy experienced fewer nasal symptoms.
- Speak With Your Doctor
- Of course, if you're still experiencing bad seasonal allergy symptoms, it's best to speak with your doctor, who may recommend that you have skin tests or blood tests to find out what allergens are triggering your symptoms. This, in turn, will help determine the treatments that will best work for you.
