What Are the Most Common Spring Allergies?
Spring is one of the most beautiful times of the year, especially when your allergy symptoms are under control. But for the more than 81 million Americans living with seasonal allergies, pollen and other environmental triggers can quickly turn the season into a daily struggle, affecting how you feel and function.
If you’re already feeling the effects, you’re not alone. Understanding what’s causing your symptoms and how to treat them can make a major difference in how you experience the season.
What triggers spring allergies?
Spring allergies are typically triggered by tree pollen, which is released into the air as trees begin to bloom. Because pollen is lightweight, it can travel for miles on the wind. This makes it difficult to avoid and easy to inhale, especially on warm, dry or windy days.
Does that mean you’re destined to struggle with symptoms everywhere you go? Not necessarily. Different regions have different plant life, meaning not all pollen is present in every area. Our “Regional Guide to Seasonal Allergies in the United States” explores this further.
For example, the most common tree pollens in the Philidelphia area include oak, pine, juniper/cedar, maple and birch.
In addition to tree pollen, spring can also bring exposure to:
- Mold spores from damp leaves or soil
- Residual indoor allergens like dust mites
Identifying your symptoms is the first step to discovering your trigger allergen and finding a path to allergy relief.
What are the most common seasonal allergy symptoms?
Spring allergies affect everyone differently. However, the most common seasonal allergy symptoms include:
- Sneezing
- Runny or congested nose
- Itchy, watery eyes
- Postnasal drip
- Scratchy throat or coughing
- Fatigue or brain fog
Some people may also experience worsening asthma symptoms, such as wheezing, chest tightness or shortness of breath. If symptoms continue to worsen, it’s a sign that you should consult an allergy and asthma specialist.
By working with a board-certified allergist, you can uncover the true cause of these symptoms and identify whether you need allergy treatment or asthma care.
When should you consider allergy testing?
If your symptoms return every spring or don’t improve with over-the-counter medications, it may be time to consider allergy testing.
At Allergy & Asthma Specialists, our board-certified allergists recommend skin testing as the most reliable form of allergy testing. Since many allergy-related cells (mast cells) are just under the skin, doctors find that a skin prick test gives a more accurate diagnosis than a blood test.
This simple process involves a series of tiny scratches made with a tiny toothpick-like tool that allows allergists to test for up to eight allergens with minimal discomfort. Each tip of this device contains trace amounts of a single allergen (pollen, mold, pet dander, etc.). Positive results typically show within 20 minutes as a small bump, similar to a mosquito bite.
With clear results, your allergist can now recommend an individualized path to allergy relief.
Want to learn more about your allergy testing options and the process? Read our blog on the topic.
What are your options for allergy treatment?
The right allergy relief treatment depends on your symptoms, triggers and lifestyle. Your board-certified allergy specialist may recommend a combination of the following:
Medications
Over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription antihistamines, nasal sprays and decongestants can help manage symptoms during peak allergy season. OTC medication is only a source of temporary relief.
Allergy shots (immunotherapy)
For long-term relief, allergy shots gradually help your immune system become less sensitive to allergens. To learn more about allergy shots and the immunotherapy process, you can read our article, “Allergy Shots: A Long-Term Solution To Allergy Symptoms.”
Avoidance strategies
Simple lifestyle changes can also help reduce exposure to environmental allergy and asthma triggers, such as:
- Keeping windows closed during high pollen days
- Showering after spending time outdoors
- Using HEPA filters in your home
By working with your provider, you can create a personalized approach that treats allergy symptoms while also addressing the underlying cause.
Enjoy every season allergy-free!
Breathe easier this season! At Allergy & Asthma Specialists, local allergy and asthma specialists are ready to support you and your family with comprehensive testing and personalized treatment plans. Schedule your allergist appointment with Allergy & Asthma Specialists today.
About Family Allergy & Asthma
Founded in 1979, Family Allergy & Asthma’s practice network of allergy and asthma specialists provides high-quality, reliable and lasting allergy relief throughout Arkansas, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Missouri, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Tennessee, and includes affiliates Allergy & Asthma Specialists (AAS), Asthma and Allergy Associates of Florida (AAAF) and Arkansas Allergy and Asthma Clinic (AAAC). For more information, visit familyallergy.com, and follow Family Allergy & Asthma on Facebook, Instagram and X.
