Seasonal allergies, often also called hay fever or allergic rhinitis, affect millions of people when their body’s immune system reacts to pollen, mold spores, and other allergens during certain times of the year, such as spring and fall. The immune system treats these allergens as harmful invaders and releases histamine and other chemicals in response, causing the symptoms.
Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
- Congestion
- Itchy eyes, nose, and throat
- Watery eyes
- Headaches
- Fatigue
Managing Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies
Avoid allergens – If you know you’re allergic to pollen, avoid going outside during peak pollen times or wear a mask to protect your nose and mouth from inhaling the allergen. Similarly, dusting and vacuuming your home regularly to reduce the amount of allergens in your living space can help.
Over-the-counter medications – Antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal sprays can all provide relief for seasonal allergy symptoms.
Antihistamines:
Antihistamines work by blocking the action of histamine, a chemical released by the body in response to allergens, which causes symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. They are available in both pill and liquid form and can be purchased over the counter.
- Loratadine (Claritin)
- Cetirizine (Zyrtec)
- Fexofenadine (Allegra)
- Levocetirizine (Xyzal)
- Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) – a first-generation antihistamine which tends to cause more side effects
Decongestants:
Decongestants work by narrowing the blood vessels in the nasal passages, which helps to reduce swelling and congestion. They are also available in pill or liquid form and can be purchased over the counter.
- Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed)
Nasal Steroid Sprays:
Nasal steroid sprays work by reducing inflammation in the nasal passages, which can help to relieve symptoms such as congestion and sneezing.
- Fluticasone (Flonase)
- Budesonide (Rhinocort)
- Triamcinolone (Nasacort)
Nasal Decongestant Spray:
Nasal decongestant sprays work by shrinking the blood vessels in the nasal passages, which can quickly relieve congestion. They should be used with caution as they can cause rebound congestion if used for more than a few days in a row, leading to dependence and worsening of symptoms.
- Oxymetazoline (Afrin)
It’s important to note that all of these medications can have potential side effects and may interact with other medications. It’s recommended to speak with a healthcare professional before starting any new medication to determine the best course of treatment for your specific needs.