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As the weather warms up, plants start releasing pollen. These tiny seeds are supposed to fertilize other plants, grasses and trees. Sometimes, they do more than help their own species grow. They cause you to experience seasonal spring allergies.
“Allergies can cause a significant impact on quality of life,” says Dr. William Reisacher, otolaryngic allergist and professor of otolaryngology at Weill Cornell Medicine. Thankfully, he explains, “There are many things that can be done for allergies.”
Some of them, you can do before the first allergic reaction of spring.
When pollen kicks your immune system into overdrive, the symptoms are obvious. Symptoms include:
To combat these symptoms, you have to know what causes your reaction.
“The most common spring allergen is tree pollen,” Dr. Reisacher says. “Mold spores are also very common in the early spring as the snow cover begins to melt.”
One way to know your allergens is to undergo an allergy test. A common and quick approach is a skin test. During this exam, an allergy expert places a tiny amount of potential allergens under your skin. If a reaction occurs, you’re allergic.
Once you know your allergens, look out for them. Visit the National Allergy Bureau for the latest pollen count information in your region. This can help you gauge your risk for spring allergies.
When spring allergy triggers are present, you’re at risk for seasonal allergies, also known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis. You can reduce your risk with the following steps:
If spring allergies strike every year, start treatment before symptoms begin. An allergy specialist can help you know when to begin taking allergy medications and which option is best for you.
Depending on your needs, you may benefit from one of the following:
You don’t have to let allergy symptoms ruin your day. With a few simple steps, you can stop allergens in their tracks and reduce your springtime sniffles and sneezes.
Ready to feel better in spring and the rest of the year? Find a doctor at Weill Cornell Medicine today who can help you manage your allergies.
