Who doesn’t love spring? Winter is at an end, the days are getting warmer, the air seems fresher, and it’s a treat to be spending more time outdoors.

But, unfortunately for many, as the flowers start to bloom and the landscape springs to life, so do allergies.

Pollen, the tiny grain released by plants for reproduction, is a common cause. Because the immune system mistakes it for a threat, the body will release chemicals such as histamine to fight it, triggering an allergic reaction.

Spot the signs

Now, how do you know whether your sniffles are the result of the changing weather or a cold lingering from winter? While symptoms of a cold usually include a fever, spring allergies rarely do and present only as long as you’re exposed to pollen.

Symptoms of spring allergies include:

• Endless sneezing
• A runny, stuffy or congested nose
• Itchy, red or watery eyes
• Itchy throat, nose or ears
• Coughing caused by a postnasal drip
• Asthma
• Loss of sense of smell or taste

Managing spring allergies

A few small changes to your habits can make a big difference to your enjoyment of the warmer weather:

• Check the pollen count via a weather app on your phone, or on weather websites such as The Real Pollen Count, before heading outdoors, especially on windy days.
• Wear a mask outside.
• Because pollen can stick to clothing, shoes and hair, change your clothes and wash your face after being outdoors.
• Keep windows closed, especially on high-pollen or windy days.
• Stay hydrated, as water aids in thinning mucus.
• After consulting your healthcare provider, take your prescribed allergy medications as instructed, and be sure to discuss any side effects or alternative treatments.

While allergy season can be uncomfortable, it doesn’t have to slow you down. With a little awareness and preparation, you can still go out and smell the roses.

References:

• https://www.lung.org-blog-dont-fear-spring-allergies
• https://my.clevelandclinic.org-health-diseases-pollen-allergy