Understanding Spring Allergies: Signs and Treatment

Trees and blossoms can thrive in early spring, but for those who suffer from spring allergies, this is not a pleasant season.

There are many positive aspects of spring, including longer days, warmer weather, blooming flowers, and an increase in outside activities. Spring allergies, however, can make this season uncomfortable for those who experience sneezing, sniffling, and coughing.

The good news is that you can take specific actions to lessen your suffering and resume taking advantage of all that spring has to offer.

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What are Spring Allergies?

Spring allergies may be the cause of your seasonal sneezing and coughing. Yet, you simply don't have to put up with seasonal allergies. You can try different remedies as well as yoga poses for seasonal allergies.

Spring allergies can start as early as February and extend into early summer in many parts of the United States. Early in the year, pollination of trees begins, followed by that of grass later in the spring and summer and that of ragweed in the late summer and fall.

Spring allergy may cause watery eyes and runny nose. (Image via Pexels/ Cottonbro Studio)

Ragweed, a plant that grows wild practically everywhere but mainly on the East Coast and in the Midwest, is the main cause of fall allergies. Between August and November, ragweed blooms and produces pollen. Early to mid-September is when ragweed pollen concentrations are at their maximum in many parts of the nation.

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How Do you Know if You Have Allergies?

Millions of Americans suffer from seasonal allergies, sometimes referred to as hay fever or allergic rhinitis. They develop as a result of an allergic reaction to the mold and plant growth cycles. Pollen and spores are released into the air as plants and mold grow. Inhaling pollen and spores might result in symptoms such as inflammation and discomfort.

• Here are some common symptoms to look out for:
• Itchy skin
• Watery eyes
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Headache
• Sneezing
• Sore throat
• Dry cough
• Loss of smell (temporary)

A formal allergy diagnosis can be given by a primary care physician, clinician, or allergy specialist. They often suggest an allergy test to achieve this.

The most typical method of testing for spring allergies is a skin prick test. Skin testing isn't painful, despite the fact that it may sound painful. Your skin will be softly punctured with allergens during the test, and any allergic reactions will be watched for.

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How to Treat Allergies

The best treatment for spring allergies is to stay away from allergens that make you feel sick.

1) Avoid allergens

Be proactive about avoiding seasonal allergies. For instance, in the summer, opt for an air conditioner with a HEPA filter over ceiling fans to cool your home. When pollen counts are high, try to stay inside.

It is best to stay away from allergens. (Image via Pexels/ Towfiqu Barbhuiya)

For pollen forecasts, check your local weather network. If your hay fever is active during the year:

• Keep your windows closed,
• Minimize how much time you spend outside,
• Wear a dust mask outside, especially on windy days.
• Also, smoking should be avoided because it might make spring allergy symptoms worse.

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2) Steam inhalation

A common treatment for spring allergies that can calm symptoms and clear nasal passages is steam inhalation. Place a bowl of boiling water on the table and inhale the steam. With a towel over your head, face, and bowl, inhale the fumes.

While using hot or boiling water, take caution to prevent the skin from burning.

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3) Saline rinse

By removing excess nasal mucus, saline rinses can ease congestion and stuffy nose symptoms. Moreover, the remedy helps remove irritants from the sinuses and nasal passages. Many saline rinses are available over-the-counter.

Spring allergies afflict millions of Americans each year. Some over-the-counter and prescription medications are effective in treating spring allergies. Symptoms may be relieved by natural treatments as well. But if a person's symptoms get too bad or are difficult to control, they should see a doctor.