Allergy season can be a challenging time for tens of millions as pollen from trees, grass, and other plants triggers symptoms such as runny noses, itchy eyes, coughing, and sneezing. The severity of allergy symptoms varies based on location, allergens, and individual lifestyles. Experts have pointed out that climate change is leading to longer and more intense allergy seasons. However, advancements in allergy treatments over the past decade have made managing these conditions more effective.
Pollen, the powdery substance produced by seed-bearing plants and trees, plays a crucial role in their reproductive process. During early spring, tree pollen is the primary concern, followed by grass pollen later in the season, and then weeds in late summer and early fall. Common tree pollens that contribute to allergic reactions include birch, cedar, cottonwood, maple, elm, oak, and walnut. Meanwhile, grasses such as Bermuda, Johnson, rye, and Kentucky bluegrass are also known to provoke symptoms.
The first line of defense against allergies is minimizing exposure to pollen. It is recommended to keep windows in cars and homes closed, even when the weather is pleasant. When venturing outdoors, wearing long sleeves can prevent pollen from contacting the skin and offer some sun protection, according to Dr. James Baker, an allergist from the University of Michigan. Upon returning home, changing clothes and showering daily helps remove any pollen residue, including from hair. If daily hair washing isn't feasible, wearing a hat or scarf while outside can provide some protection. It is also advisable not to get into bed with outdoor clothing, as pollen can transfer into bedding.
To help relieve allergy symptoms, rinsing the eyes and nose with saline can effectively clear pollen. Additionally, masks that were popular during the pandemic can help protect against airborne allergens, although they do not alleviate eye symptoms.
Experts indicate that over-the-counter nasal sprays are among the most effective treatments for managing seasonal allergies. Proper usage is essential; Dr. Kathleen May, an allergist at Augusta University in Georgia, recommends angling the nozzle toward the ear when spraying, rather than aiming straight up the nose, to avoid irritation. Over-the-counter oral allergy medications such as Claritin, Allegra, and Zyrtec can also be helpful but may take longer to act compared to nasal sprays.
If allergy symptoms significantly impair one's quality of life — affecting sleep, focus at work or school — it may be wise to consult an allergist. There are treatments available that can help retrain the immune system to respond less aggressively to allergens. It is important to note that some home remedies circulating on social media, such as consuming local honey to acclimate to pollen, have been dismissed by experts like Dr. Shyam Joshi of Oregon Health and Science University. This is because the pollen that causes allergy symptoms usually differs from the types of pollen found in honey.
As climate patterns shift, milder winters and extended growing seasons result in prolonged periods of airborne pollen, leading to more severe allergy seasons. The previous year saw one of the most intense allergy seasons recorded, highlighting the growing impact of environmental changes on health.
