Spring Is Here… And So Are Spring Allergies
Posted on March 27, 2025
You may love to see pretty flowers bloom in spring, but they can be a problem when you have allergies.
Sometimes called hay fever, seasonal allergies are typically triggered by pollen. That pollen tends to come from trees and flowers, in the case of spring allergies. (Grass and weed pollens can be culprits in summer and fall.) When you are allergic to pollen, your immune system overreacts, triggering allergy symptoms. This time of year, you may start to notice symptoms such as:
- Sneezing
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Red, watery eyes
- Itchy nose, eyes or mouth
Finding relief from allergies
You don’t have to put up with spring allergies that are making you miserable. See a doctor if you have allergy symptoms. A doctor can use skin or blood tests to help pinpoint your specific allergy triggers, as well as create a treatment plan for you that may include:
>> Taking allergy medicine as directed. A doctor may suggest over-the-counter or prescription medicines, such as corticosteroid nasal sprays, decongestants or antihistamines, to help relieve or prevent your symptoms.
>> Avoiding allergy triggers. While it may not be possible to avoid pollen
entirely, try to reduce your exposure to it as much as possible. For example:
- Check pollen forecasts before heading out. Try to plan your outdoor
activities to avoid being outside when pollen counts are high. - Keep your windows closed when a lot of pollen is in the air.
- Wear a mask and cover your hair when outside during pollen season.
- Shower and change your clothes after being outside.
Get expert help with allergies from your primary care provider or an allergy
specialist. Find a provider here >> healthnewengland.org/medicare/provider
Sources: American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology; Asthma & Allergy Foundation of America; National Institutes of Health
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