Sneezing, Coughing, and Itchy Eyes: How to Cope with Allergies in the Spring

Spring is just around the corner, which means warmer temperatures and more opportunities for people to enjoy the outdoors

But if you're one of the millions of Americans, going out when there's pollen in the air might not be a good idea

Here's how to manage your seasonal allergies during the warmer months

What are the causes of spring allergies?

The biggest cause of spring allergies is pollen

In spring, trees, grasses and weeds release tiny pollen grains into the air to fertilize other plants

This often causes histamine to be released into the bloodstream, which can trigger allergy symptoms such as:

• runny nose

• watery eyes

• sneeze

• cough

• itchy eyes and nose

• dark circles

How to Reduce Exposure to Allergy Triggers

According to the Mayo Clinic, you can take the following steps to reduce exposure to things that trigger allergy symptoms:

• Stay indoors on dry, windy days

  
  

• Wash your skin and hair from pollen after spending time outdoors

  
  

• Wear a pollen mask if you decide to do chores outdoors

  
  

• Avoid outdoor activities in the early morning when pollen levels are highest

  
  

• Close doors and windows at night or when pollen counts are high

  
  

• Start allergy medication before symptoms appear

  
  

over-the-counter medicines for allergies

According to the Mayo Clinic, many types of over-the-counter medications can help relieve allergy symptoms

• Oral antihistamines to relieve sneezing, itching, runny nose, and watery eyes, such as Clomid, Allergy, Zantec, and Allegra

• Decongestants can relieve nasal congestion, such as Sudafed and Afinol

• Nasal spray to relieve allergy symptoms

• some over-the-counter medications, such as clatin-d and allegra-d, which combine antihistamines and decongestants

How to keep the air in your house free of allergens

It's impossible to eliminate all allergens from the air in your home, but the following methods can help reduce them, the Mayo Clinic says:

• Use HEPA filters in your air conditioning units and follow a regular maintenance schedule

  
  

• Use a dehumidifier to keep indoor air dry

  
  

• Use a portable HEPA filter in your bedroom

  
  

• Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter
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