Feeling sneezy, runny and itchy? It might be pollen allergies, which are incredibly common but can make you feel pretty miserable if they're not managed properly. Those tiny, powdery particles made by plants are pollen. If you're allergic to it, pollen can trigger hay fever, or what doctors call allergic rhinitis. Symptoms of allergic rhinitis are similar to those caused by the common cold, but pollen allergies might also make your nose, skin or eyes feel itchy. You might also have watery eyes, headaches, a cough or develop dark circles under your eyes.
According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, pollen is mostly produced by trees, grasses and weeds, and it's possible to be allergic to just one or several types. Symptoms flare when the pollen you're allergic to is prevalent in the air. This could happen in the spring or fall, but it depends on your allergies and where you live.
"In the Pacific Northwest's temperate climate, tree pollen is most prevalent from February to April, grass pollen from May to July, then weed pollen in August and September," says Pediatrics Northwest. "With pollen allergies, every microclimate can be different, so symptoms can vary depending on where you live in the Pacific Northwest."
The best way to figure out if you truly have allergies — and get the right help — is to see an allergist for testing and then work together with your local pharmacist to develop a treatment plan.
Limit Your Exposure
Taking steps to reduce your exposure to pollen is a smart way to get relief. You can check the pollen forecast for your area at pollen.com and if possible, try to stay indoors on high pollen days.
For indoor air to remain as comfortable as possible, keep windows closed and run air conditioners as needed. Consider investing in an air purifier, especially for your bedroom. Choose one with a HEPA filter that's the right size for your room.
To minimize tracking pollen inside your home, be sure to remove shoes and coats near your door. Taking a shower once you're inside for the day or right before bedtime will also help by washing away pollen from your skin and hair.
Try Nasal Rinses
One easy, drug-free way to reduce allergies is to flush out your nasal passages with a saline nasal rinse and irrigation device. You can buy a kit that includes premade saline packets, or fill your device with a homemade mixture of iodine-free salt and baking soda.
Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning the device and remember to let it dry completely after use. Do not share irrigation devices with anyone to avoid spreading germs.
Reach for OTC Options
Many medications that combat pollen-related allergies were once prescription-only, but are now available over the counter (OTC). Allergists most often recommend non-sedating antihistamines, such as loratadine (Claritin) and cetirizine (Zyrtec), which you can take when symptoms are flaring up or when you know that pollen counts are high. Antihistamines come in pill, liquid or nasal spray form.
Allergists also frequently recommend nasal corticosteroids, like fluticasone (Flonase) and triamcinolone (Nasacort). These sprays tend to work best when taken daily and started at least one to two weeks before pollen allergies are expected to be high in your area. That gives the medication time to start working and prevents the body from releasing histamine and other chemicals that cause symptoms. That said, some people do benefit from short-term use, as well. Fluticasone typically starts working within 12 hours of use and triamcinolone usually starts working within two to three days.
Ask About Stronger Pollen Allergy Medicine
If OTC antihistamines and nasal steroids aren't cutting it, ask your allergist or pharmacist if a different type of allergy medication, like a decongestant, might be necessary. Depending on your symptoms, your doctor may recommend taking an OTC decongestant for a short period, or they might offer a prescription antihistamine or nasal steroid.
Consider Allergy Shots (Immunotherapy)
If your allergies aren't well-controlled by medication, your allergist might recommend allergy shots. Allergy shots are a type of immunotherapy. They contain a small amount of the specific allergen(s) that trigger your symptoms, and they work similarly to a vaccine: By exposing your body to tiny amounts of allergens, you eventually get used to them and won't develop as many symptoms.
Allergy shots are very effective, but they don't work right away. Most people who receive them require shots one to three times per week for up to six months, per the Mayo Clinic. Beyond that, they'll continue getting shots monthly for several years. It could take a year or more of treatment to feel better.
Leading an Allergy-Free Life
Pollen allergies can make you feel lousy, but there's no need to suffer. Making simple lifestyle changes and taking the necessary medication can add up to some much-needed relief. This way, you and your family can enjoy the great outdoors — without a packet of tissues.
These articles are intended for informational purposes only and are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and are not intended to treat or cure any disease. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in these articles. Advances in medicine may cause this information to become outdated, invalid, or subject to debate. Professional opinions and interpretations of scientific literature may vary. Consult your healthcare professional before making changes to your diet, exercise or medication regimen.