Tips for managing seasonal allergies

With flowers blooming and temperatures warming up, you may be reaching for your allergy meds.

In the Pacific Northwest, tree pollen (especially alder) is most prevalent from February to April, grass pollen from May to July, then weed pollen in August and September.

For treating seasonal allergies, a three-pronged approach of avoidance, medication and allergy testing is recommended. Avoid going outside when pollen is at its peak, take medication as needed and have allergy testing done if your allergies become too severe.

Below are some additional ways to minimize exposure to pollen and some treatment options if you experience symptoms.

Avoiding pollen

• Allergies tend to be worse in middle of the day, so do your outside activities in the morning or evening
• Wear glasses and a hat to keep pollen off the face and eyes
• If a child starts to experience a reaction while playing at a park, find a water fountain and wash their hands and face
• Wash off after time outdoors
• Don’t dry sheets outdoors, as they’ll accumulate pollen
• When you sleep at night, keep your head away from open windows

Seasonal allergy treatments

• Take a simple antihistamine before outdoor activity
  • No need for expensive name brands — generic, over-the-counter antihistamines work great
• A saltwater nasal wash or a neti pot can reduce nasal secretions and congestion, and saline doesn’t have side effects
• Take a decongestant for both nose and eye symptoms — both types of symptoms are primarily related to congestion
• If those steps don’t work, a host of other medications are available by prescription:
  • Intranasal steroid sprays
  • Antihistamine, as a nasal spray or taken by mouth
  • Eye drops
  • Cromolyn, which is available by prescription or as over-the-counter nasal spray or drops

How do I know whether I should try something more than medication?

Generally, allergies can be managed with simple medications and avoidance if symptoms:

• Are mild and don’t limit attendance at school or work
• Don’t interfere with your ability to sleep at night
• Don’t interfere with daytime activities

If your life is impaired by allergies, it may be time to consider allergy immunotherapy. Visit an ear, nose and throat allergy specialist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment.

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Editor’s note: This article was originally published in March 2016 and updated in March 2018.