Spring is a season that many of us are eager to welcome. The long, laborious months of winter get old quickly, and the blooming flowers and trees during April and May are sights to behold.

As beautiful as spring is, it can be a tough season for many, due to seasonal allergies commonly rearing their ugly heads during this time of year. Why does this happen, though?

Our AFC Urgent Care Farragut team shares some helpful answers below, so keep reading!

What Causes Allergy Symptoms in the Spring?

The biggest allergy trigger during this season is pollen. As trees, grass, flowers and weeds all begin to grow, they release these tiny grains into the air, which help to fertilize other plants. While this is a noble cause, it can be rough on our immune systems.

The immune system identifies pollen as a threat, then produces histamines to fight them off, causing nasal, throat and chest inflammation and/or congestion. If you experience the symptoms we’ve listed below, you’re almost certainly dealing with seasonal allergies.

Common Seasonal Allergy Symptoms

• Itchy, watery or red eyes
• Circles under eyes
• Itchy mouth, nose or throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Drainage from the nose down the back of the throat (postnasal drip)
• Temporary loss of smell
• Headache
• Sneezing

What Is the Best Way to Get Rid of Seasonal Allergies?

While there is no way to completely eliminate seasonal allergies, there are certain things you may do to lessen the severity of your symptoms. Taking over-the-counter decongestants or antihistamines, which can reduce sneezing and sniffling, is one of the finest things you can do.

Below are a few additional helpful strategies to alleviate allergy symptoms.

Ways to Reduce Seasonal Allergy Symptoms

• Know when to take your allergy medicines. If you typically experience bad allergies around the same time each year, start taking your nose sprays or OTC antihistamines about two weeks before allergy season starts, and then keep taking them regularly throughout your allergy season.
• Keep indoor air clean. You can do this by using a dehumidifier and vacuuming regularly. This will reduce the amount of harmful allergens that make their way inside the home.
• After spending time outside, remove your clothes and shower to rinse pollen from your skin and hair.

Feeling rough? We’re here to help you feel better. Don’t hesitate to visit our AFC center today.