If you sneeze, itch, or get a runny nose when spring rolls around, you’re probably dealing with seasonal allergies. The good news is you don’t need a medical degree to feel better. Below are practical steps you can start using today.
Allergy season usually starts when trees, grasses, or weeds release pollen into the air. Typical signs include watery eyes, sneezing fits, itchy throat, and a stuffy nose. Some people also get mild headaches or feel extra tired.
The easiest way to spot your trigger is to notice when symptoms start. If you feel worse after mowing the lawn, it’s likely grass pollen. If a walk in a park makes you sniffle, tree pollen could be the culprit.
First‑line relief comes from over‑the‑counter antihistamines like loratadine or cetirizine. They block histamine, the chemical that makes you itchy and sneezy. Take them once a day with water; most people feel better within an hour.
Nasal sprays work well too. A saline spray clears mucus, while steroid sprays such as fluticasone reduce swelling inside the nose. Use a nasal spray twice daily for best results.
If you prefer natural tricks, try rinsing your sinuses with a neti pot or a squeeze bottle filled with warm salt water. It washes out pollen and eases congestion without any pills.
Keeping windows shut on high‑pollen days and using an air purifier at home can lower the amount of pollen you breathe in. Changing clothes and showering after spending time outdoors helps remove pollen from your skin and hair.
Lastly, stay hydrated. Drinking water thins mucus, making it easier to clear your nose.
Seasonal allergies are annoying but manageable. By knowing your triggers and using a mix of antihistamines, nasal sprays, and simple home habits, you can get through spring with far fewer sniffles.
