Plagued by Spring Allergies? 7 Tips for Finding Relief

When your immune system overreacts to pollen, you might feel miserable just as the weather starts warming up. More than 25% of adults in the United States have seasonal allergies.

If allergy symptoms plague you this spring and you need quick relief, see our primary care specialists at Mansfield Primary Care Doctors in Mansfield, Texas, for a personalized allergy treatment plan.

Symptoms of seasonal allergies

Here are some common symptoms of seasonal allergies to watch for:

• Nasal congestion
• Runny nose and eyes
• Sneezing
• Itchy nose, throat, and eyes
• Coughing
• Fatigue 
• Post-nasal drip

It’s helpful to distinguish between symptoms caused by allergies and those related to colds, flu, and other illnesses. 

Allergy testing at Mansfield Primary Care Doctors can determine which seasonal allergens may be bothering you. 

When allergens often appear

Common allergens and when they typically appear include:

• Mold: fall season
• Weed pollen, including ragweed: late summer and fall
• Tree pollen: early spring
• Grass pollen: late spring and early summer
• Pet dander: year-round
• Dust mites: year-round

Learning what you’re allergic to can help you discover solutions offering lasting relief.

Seven ways to ease allergy symptoms

Here are seven simple ways to relieve allergy symptoms.

1. Take oral medications

Taking oral medications when spring allergies are in full swing can ease symptoms. They can help you breathe easier and support a better quality of life.

2. Try nasal sprays or rinses

Your Mansfield Primary Care Doctors provider may recommend nasal sprays or rinses to ease congestion and similar bothersome symptoms. Some require a prescription while others are over-the-counter. 

3. Consider immunotherapy 

Immunotherapy at Mansfield Primary Care Doctors helps the immune system build up a tolerance to allergens by exposing your body to small doses. Immunotherapy is available as injections, drops, or tablets that dissolve under your tongue. 

4. Keep indoor air clean

Despite an urge to open your windows as the weather warms, avoid doing so if you struggle with seasonal allergies — especially if you’re allergic to pollen. Use your air conditioning unit and change filters in your home to keep indoor air clean. Consider a portable high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter for your bedroom. 

5. Wear a mask outdoors

When outdoor air allergen counts are high, consider wearing a mask when mowing the lawn or raking leaves to keep seasonal allergy symptoms at bay. 

6. Shower and change after outdoor activities

Pollen can cling to your hair, skin, and clothes. Showering and changing after being outdoors can minimize pollen counts and allergy symptoms. 

7. Clean and wash strategically

Minimize symptoms caused by allergens that creep indoors by cleaning and washing things in your home. Vacuum regularly and dust with a damp cloth to trap allergens, rather than stirring them into the air. Wash clothes, towels, and bedding regularly to help you breathe easier in your home.

Receive your personalized allergy treatment plan at Mansfield Primary Care Doctors by calling our office or booking an appointment online today.