Many people experience symptoms such as sneezing, watery eyes, and coughing during allergy season. These reactions occur when the body responds to allergens like pollen or pet dander.
“Even though pollens and pet dander are not considered dangerous, once exposed, the body goes into attack mode and sets off a false alarm, so to speak,” said Dr. Mas Takashima, an otolaryngologist at Houston Methodist. “Then we experience mucus production and symptoms such as a runny nose as the body tries to flush the irritants out.”
Common symptoms of seasonal allergies include a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, scratchy throat, fatigue, and headaches.
There are several strategies for managing these symptoms both at home and with medical support. Dr. Takashima recommends improving indoor air quality by keeping windows closed on high pollen days and using HEPA filters. Regularly cleaning or changing air filters and frequent dusting can also help reduce airborne irritants.
“After you identify the different ways the allergens are getting into your house, you’re going to be in a better place to create a safer environment,” Dr. Takashima said.
Reducing exposure outdoors is another important step. Pollen levels tend to be highest in the mornings; wearing sunglasses and hats can help keep pollen away from eyes and hair. Changing clothes and showering after being outside removes lingering allergens from skin and hair.
“If you go to bed without showering, you’re going to be sleeping with those irritants all night long,” Dr. Takashima noted. “So why not rinse it all off, to make your bedroom safe?”
Pets that spend time both indoors and outdoors can also bring pollen inside; regular grooming may help minimize this issue.
Nasal irrigation using saline solutions is another effective method for clearing congestion caused by allergens. Dr. Takashima suggests daily rinses during heavy pollen seasons: “Rinse your nose on a regular basis,” he said. “Rinsing once a day, especially in heavy pollen seasons, is very beneficial.” He advises using only sterile water—such as distilled or previously boiled water—to avoid introducing harmful microorganisms.
Over-the-counter options like antihistamines or nasal corticosteroid sprays may also provide relief; patients should consult their primary care doctor about which treatment might work best for them.
If home remedies do not control symptoms effectively, seeing an allergy specialist could lead to further treatments such as allergy shots or oral drops that retrain immune responses over time.
“When we can help improve your allergy symptoms, you may be less likely to develop sinus infections,” Dr. Takashima explained. “And a lot of times, lung function will get better too — wheezing, coughing and shortness of breath improves.”
Dr. Takashima encourages proactive management of seasonal allergies so individuals can maintain their usual activities throughout allergy season.
