Seasonal Allergies: Symptoms, Triggers and Treatment

Introduction

Seasonal allergies can cause sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes, and a runny nose ^[1,3]. They can also harm sleep, focus, work, and school performance ^[3,5].

Learning about seasonal allergies can help you plan for pollen season. This guide covers symptoms, triggers, treatment, and when to seek care. It also explains how to limit pollen and use common treatments safely.

Overview: What Are Seasonal Allergies?

Seasonal allergies are also called hay fever or seasonal allergic rhinitis ^[1,4]. Allergic rhinitis is swelling inside the nose due to an allergic response ^[1,4].

Seasonal allergic rhinitis is an immune reaction to allergens in the air ^[5,6]. Common triggers include pollen from trees, grasses, weeds, and other plants ^[1,4,6]. Outdoor mold spores can also trigger symptoms ^[1,4].

How allergic rhinitis affects the body

The immune system normally helps protect the body. With allergies, it treats a harmless substance as a threat ^[5,6].

Pollen can enter the nose, eyes, and lungs ^[6]. The immune system then releases chemicals that cause allergy symptoms ^[5,6].

Seasonal allergic rhinitis commonly causes sneezing and nasal congestion ^[1,3]. It can also cause a runny nose, itching, and watery eyes ^[1,3]. Some people develop throat irritation, postnasal drip, or a cough ^[3,8].

Allergic conjunctivitis may occur along with nasal allergies ^[4,8]. This term means allergy-related swelling of the eye’s outer membrane. Allergic rhinitis can also occur with asthma and other allergic conditions ^[8].

Seasonal allergies versus year-round allergies

Seasonal symptoms appear or get worse during certain months ^[4,7]. The timing often matches the pollen season of the plant causing the reaction ^[4].

Year-round allergies are often called perennial allergic rhinitis ^[8]. Perennial means that symptoms can occur through much of the year.

Dust mites and pet dander often cause year-round symptoms ^[1,3,8]. Mold and material from cockroaches can also trigger allergic rhinitis ^[1,8].

Some people have both seasonal and year-round allergies ^[8]. Their symptoms may last all year but get worse during pollen season.

Seasonal allergies versus a cold

Hay fever is not caused by a virus and is not contagious ^[1,3]. A cold is an infection, while hay fever is an allergic response ^[3,6].

Both conditions may cause sneezing, congestion, coughing, or a runny nose ^[1,3]. However, allergies often cause itching in the eyes, nose, mouth, or throat ^[1,3].

Symptoms that return during the same season may also suggest allergies ^[4]. Several health problems can cause similar nose symptoms ^[1]. Seek medical advice if you are not sure what is causing them.

Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies

Seasonal allergy symptoms can be mild or severe ^[7]. They may disrupt sleep and make daily tasks harder ^[3,5].

Symptoms often follow exposure to a person’s allergy trigger ^[4,7]. Each person may react to a different type of pollen or mold ^[1,4].

Common nose, eye, and throat symptoms

Common seasonal allergy symptoms include:

• Repeated sneezing ^[1,3]
• A runny nose ^[3]
• A blocked or stuffy nose ^[1,3]
• An itchy nose, mouth, or throat ^[1,3]
• Watery, itchy, or red eyes ^[1,3]
• Mucus draining down the throat ^[3,8]
• Coughing ^[3,6]
• Irritation in the nose, throat, mouth, or eyes ^[1]
• Puffy eyes ^[6]
• Sinus pressure ^[3]

Mucus that drains down the throat is called postnasal drip ^[3,8]. It may occur with coughing ^[3]. Allergic rhinitis may also cause a dry cough that does not bring up mucus ^[8].

Symptoms may begin after time spent outdoors ^[4,7]. They may also get worse when the pollen count rises. The exact pattern depends on the allergen involved ^[4].

Effects on sleep, energy, and daily activities

Seasonal allergies can disturb sleep and reduce energy ^[3,5]. Congestion and coughing may make it hard to rest well.

Poor sleep can make it harder to focus during the day ^[3,5]. Seasonal allergies may also affect work and school performance ^[3,5].

Some people may change their outdoor plans because of symptoms. Allergy seasons can limit comfort during exercise, gardening, or other activities.

These effects can matter even when symptoms seem mild. Allergic rhinitis causes a real loss of productivity and quality of life ^[8].

Symptoms that may point to another condition

Not every blocked or runny nose is due to an allergy ^[1]. Nonallergic rhinitis can cause similar symptoms without an allergic response ^[1].

A cold can also cause many of the same symptoms ^[1,3]. However, hay fever is not a viral illness ^[1,3].

Fever and body aches are more likely to occur with an infection than hay fever. Severe facial pain or lasting thick discharge should also be checked by a clinician.

Wheezing or shortness of breath may point to asthma or another airway problem. Allergic rhinitis and asthma can share the same type of allergic process ^[8].

Causes and Common Allergy Triggers

Pollen is a common cause of seasonal allergic rhinitis ^[1,4,6]. Plants release pollen to help them reproduce ^[6].

Pollen grains can float through the air ^[6]. They can then enter the nose, eyes, or lungs ^[6]. The immune system may mistake the pollen for a harmful substance ^[6].

Tree, grass, and weed pollen

Different plants release pollen at different times of year ^[4]. A person’s allergy season often depends on the plants that trigger symptoms ^[4].

Tree pollen often peaks in spring ^[4]. Grass pollen often peaks in late spring and summer ^[4]. Weed pollen often peaks in late summer and fall ^[4].

These times can change based on climate and location ^[4]. Weather and the types of plants in an area can also affect timing ^[4].

In temperate parts of North America, tree pollen is often highest from March through May ^[4]. Grass pollen often peaks during June and July ^[4]. Ragweed symptoms may be worst from mid-August through October ^[4].

These months are only broad guides. A person’s local pollen season may start earlier or later.

Wind-pollinated plants are common allergic rhinitis triggers ^[4]. Their pollen can travel through the air ^[4,6]. Once it settles, pollen may look like fine yellow dust ^[6].

Mold and other allergic rhinitis triggers

Outdoor mold spores can trigger seasonal allergies ^[1,4]. Mold grows well in damp and dark places ^[4]. People with mold allergies may react near damp plants or old leaves ^[4].

Pet dander can also cause allergic rhinitis ^[1,3]. Dander is made of tiny bits of skin shed by animals ^[3]. Dust mites and cockroach material are other possible triggers ^[1,3].

Indoor allergens are more likely to cause year-round symptoms ^[1,3,8]. However, a person can react to more than one allergen ^[8].

Someone may have both pollen and indoor allergies ^[8]. This can make the cause and timing of symptoms less clear.

Weather, location, and pollen exposure

Dry and windy weather can raise pollen exposure ^[2]. Wind can move pollen through the air and stir up allergens.

Steady rain may help clear pollen from the air ^[2]. For this reason, outdoor time may be more comfortable after a good rain ^[2].

Location also affects the plants that grow in an area ^[4]. It can also change when those plants release pollen ^[4]. Travel may expose a person to different pollen and bloom times.

A local pollen forecast can help with planning ^[2]. Tracking pollen levels and symptoms may also show a useful pattern.

Seasonal Allergy Treatment and Prevention

Hay fever treatment may include lifestyle changes, medicines, or immunotherapy ^[1,2]. The best plan depends on the person’s symptoms and triggers.

Some people need more than one form of treatment. Correct and regular use is important for many allergy medicines.

Ways to reduce exposure to pollen

You may not be able to avoid all pollen. However, you can take steps to reduce exposure ^[1,2].

Useful steps include:

• Check the local pollen forecast before making outdoor plans ^[2].
• Stay inside when possible on dry and windy days ^[2].
• Plan outdoor time after a steady rain ^[2].
• Avoid mowing grass or pulling weeds on high-pollen days ^[2].
• Avoid other yard work that stirs up allergens ^[2].
• Remove outdoor clothes after you enter the home ^[2].
• Keep windows closed when pollen levels are high.
• Shower before bed to remove pollen from your skin and hair.
• Keep pollen-covered clothes out of the bedroom.

These steps may work best when you know your trigger. A diary can help you compare symptoms with pollen levels and outdoor activities.

Saline nasal rinses

Saline nasal irrigation uses salt water to rinse the nose. It may help clear pollen and mucus from the nasal passages.

A saline rinse differs from a medicated nasal spray. Read the label so you know which product you are using.

Saline nasal irrigation may reduce nasal symptoms. Use only distilled, sterile, or previously boiled and cooled water. Keep the device clean and follow all product instructions.

Antihistamines

Antihistamines are medicines used to control allergy symptoms ^[1,2]. They can help with sneezing, itching, and a runny nose ^[1,2].

Second-generation oral antihistamines generally cause less drowsiness than older first-generation drugs. Still, each person can react to medicine in a different way.

Read the label before driving or using tools. Ask a pharmacist if you use other medicines or have questions.

Antihistamine eye drops may help red, itchy, or watery eyes ^[2]. Ask a clinician which product is right for you if you have an eye condition.

Intranasal corticosteroid sprays

Intranasal corticosteroids are medicines sprayed inside the nose. They reduce the swelling linked with allergic rhinitis ^[8].

Intranasal corticosteroids are an effective treatment for allergic rhinitis ^[8]. They work best when used correctly and on a regular basis.

Follow the package or prescription instructions. A pharmacist or clinician can show you how to aim and use the spray. Do not use more than the label or prescription directs.

Decongestants

Decongestants may provide short-term relief from a blocked nose ^[2]. However, these medicines are not right for everyone.

Decongestants may cause side effects or interact with other medicines. Ask a clinician or pharmacist before using one if you have a long-term health problem.

Topical nasal decongestants are sprayed directly into the nose. Using these sprays longer than directed can cause rebound congestion. This means the stuffiness returns or gets worse when the medicine wears off.

Always follow the product label. Do not continue a nasal decongestant spray beyond the stated time.

Allergy testing and immunotherapy

A clinician may suggest allergy testing if your trigger is not clear. Testing may also help when symptoms stay hard to control.

An allergist is a doctor who treats allergies. This doctor can review your symptoms and discuss long-term options.

Allergen immunotherapy uses controlled exposure to a specific allergen ^[1]. Allergy shots are one form of immunotherapy ^[1]. The goal is to change how the immune system responds over time ^[1].

Allergen immunotherapy may help when avoidance and medicine do not control symptoms ^[1]. An allergist can decide if this treatment may be suitable.

When to See a Doctor for Seasonal Allergies

Many people can manage mild symptoms with trigger control and allergy medicines ^[1,2]. Medical care is important when symptoms continue or the cause is unclear.

Breathing problems need prompt attention. Medicine side effects may also require medical advice.

When to schedule a routine medical visit

Arrange a medical visit if symptoms:

• Keep returning
• Last for a long time
• Disturb sleep
• Affect work, school, or usual tasks
• Do not improve with proper treatment
• Cause frequent coughing
• Have no clear trigger
• Cause medicine side effects

Allergic rhinitis can affect sleep, daily life, and performance ^[3,5]. A clinician can also check for nonallergic rhinitis or another cause ^[1].

Seek prompt care for wheezing or worsening asthma. Allergic rhinitis can occur with asthma and long-term sinus problems ^[8].

Urgent and emergency warning signs

Wheezing or shortness of breath can be a sign of an airway problem ^[8]. Seek prompt medical care if these symptoms occur.

Severe trouble breathing needs emergency care. Throat or tongue swelling, faintness, or confusion can also signal an emergency. Call emergency services if any of these warning signs occur.

Do not depend only on routine hay fever medicine during a breathing emergency. Follow your emergency allergy or asthma plan if you have one.

How to prepare for an allergy appointment

Before your visit, write down:

• When symptoms start and stop
• Where symptoms happen
• Outdoor activities before symptoms
• Contact with animals, dust, or mold
• Local pollen levels
• Medicines, sprays, and eye drops used
• How often you used each treatment
• Whether each treatment helped
• Any side effects
• Any cough, wheezing, or sleep problems

A symptom log may help show a seasonal pattern. It can also help the clinician decide if testing or a different treatment is needed.

Bring your medicine containers or a full medicine list. Include nonprescription medicines, nasal sprays, eye drops, and supplements.

Conclusion

Knowing seasonal allergy symptoms and triggers can make pollen season easier to manage. Seasonal allergic rhinitis often causes sneezing, congestion, a runny nose, itching, and watery eyes ^[1,3].

Reducing pollen exposure may help control mild symptoms ^[1,2]. Medicines and immunotherapy can also provide relief for some people ^[1,2].

Use nasal sprays, antihistamines, decongestants, and saline rinses with care. Follow all labels and instructions.

See a clinician if symptoms last, disturb sleep, or do not improve. Seek prompt help for wheezing or shortness of breath. Call emergency services for severe breathing trouble, throat swelling, tongue swelling, faintness, or confusion.