Spring is a time of blooming flowers, warmer days and… sneezing. For many, it marks the onset of seasonal allergies, commonly referred to as hay fever.

Allergy seasons vary by locale. Georgia has two allergy seasons: fall and spring. The spring allergy season in Georgia, which occurs March through May, primarily involves tree and grass pollens. The fall allergy season, which occurs from July to October, is primarily due to weeds, such as ragweed, pigweed and nettle.

If you find yourself battling itchy eyes, a runny nose and seemingly endless sneezes, you're not alone. This blog will help you understand the key symptoms of spring allergies, explore over-the-counter medication options and highlight when it’s time to see a doctor.

Common symptoms of spring allergies

Spring allergies often occur when your immune system reacts to allergens in the environment, such as pollen, mold or grass. Spotting the symptoms early can help you manage your allergies effectively.

Here’s what to watch for:

• Sneezing – Frequent bouts of sneezing, especially outdoors
• Runny or stuffy nose – A constant need for tissues or a blocked feeling in your nasal passages
• Sinus congestion – Pressure sensation
• Headache – Due to sinus and/or nasal congestion, sneezing and coughing
• Itchy, watery eyes – Irritation often triggered by pollen exposure
• Postnasal drip – Mucus dripping down the back of the throat, potentially causing a cough and/or sore throat
• Itchy throat or nose – A telltale sign of allergy irritation
• Ear congestion – Secondary to nasal and sinus congestion
• Fatigue – Feeling tired, especially if allergy symptoms interrupt your sleep

If you or your child experiences these symptoms, spring allergies are the likely culprit.

Over-the-counter medication options

The good news? You don’t have to suffer silently through the spring season. There are several over-the-counter (OTC) medication options available to help alleviate symptoms. Always consult your pharmacist or doctor before starting new medications, especially for children.

Here are the main types of allergy medications to consider:

1. Antihistamines

Antihistamines work by blocking histamine, a chemical your body releases during allergic reactions. They are a great option for managing sneezing, runny nose and itchy eyes. Popular choices include loratadine, cetirizine and fexofenadine — all of which are non-drowsy options.

Of these three, fexofenadine is the least sedating. Cetirizine is 3.5 times more likely than loratadine to cause sedation. The full effects of most non-sedating oral antihistamines can be felt around 8-12 hours later.

Diphenhydramine is the strongest antihistamine available over the counter, but it can be very sedating. Azelastine nasal spray, another antihistamine, is also available over the counter with a rapid release (typically within 15 minutes).

2. Decongestants

If nasal congestion is making it difficult to breathe, decongestants can provide relief by reducing swelling in the nasal tissues. These are available as nasal sprays (e.g., oxymetazoline) or oral tablets (e.g., pseudoephedrine). However, nasal sprays should only be used for a few days at a time to avoid rebound congestion. Phenylephrine is included in several OTC products, but it has been shown to be ineffective.

3. Nasal corticosteroids

Nasal sprays containing corticosteroids can be highly effective at reducing inflammation in the nasal passages, addressing congestion, sneezing and postnasal drip. Common OTC options include fluticasone and triamcinolone. They usually take effect within 12 hours.

4. Eye drops

For itchy, red or watery eyes, allergy eye drops can be an instant game-changer. Some OTC options contain antihistamines or other soothing agents.

5. Combination medications

Some medications combine the effects of antihistamines and decongestants to tackle multiple symptoms at once. Be mindful of the potential for drowsiness or other side effects with these products.

When to see a physician for help

While many mild allergy symptoms can be managed with OTC remedies, there are times when professional help becomes necessary.

You should consider seeing a physician if:

• Symptoms persist or worsen – If several weeks of OTC treatments aren’t helping or the symptoms are getting worse, consult a physician.
• Breathing becomes difficult – This can be a sign of something more serious, like asthma triggered by allergies.
• You experience recurring sinus issues – Chronic nasal congestion could lead to sinus infections or other complications.
• You need personalized treatment – Doctors may offer prescription medications or recommend allergy testing to identify specific triggers.
• Children are affected – Always consult your child’s pediatrician or an ENT who treats children before beginning any treatment plan for a child.

Tips for allergy prevention

While medications can help, prevention is often the best defense against spring allergies. Consider these strategies:

• Keep windows closed at home and in the car to limit pollen exposure.
• Use air purifiers with HEPA filters to remove allergens in indoor air.
• After spending time outside, use a nasal saline sinus rinse to remove allergens.
• Change and wash clothes after spending time outdoors.
• Shower before bed to remove pollen from your hair and skin.
• Monitor daily pollen counts and limit outdoor activities when levels are high.

Take control of your spring allergies

Spring allergies may be frustrating, but they don’t have to take over your life. Recognizing the symptoms, addressing them with the right medications and seeking medical advice when necessary can help you enjoy the season sneeze-free. If you are prone to seasonal allergies, you should consider starting preventive medications in advance of the spring and fall allergy seasons.

If you’re still unsure how to tackle your allergies or have concerns that your symptoms may be a sign of a more serious illness, please visit one of our convenient Tanner Urgent Care locations to discuss treatment options and get on the path to wellness. In addition to accepting walk-ins, you may also schedule ahead to secure your spot or book a virtual visit at your convenience. These options are available in Tanner MyChart or at TannerUrgentCare.org.

With the right approach, you can make the most of everything spring has to offer — without constantly reaching for the tissue box.