As spring weather approaches, so do seasonal allergies. Many people experience seasonal allergies in the spring as this is the time plants begin to grow and flowers begin to bloom. Going outside becomes stressful and uncomfortable instead of relaxing.

So what causes seasonal allergies?  As stated on the Mayo Clinic website, “An allergy starts when your immune system mistakes a normally harmless substance for a dangerous invader.” Your immune system then produces antibodies so that when you encounter the allergen again, “the antibodies can release an immune response such as histamine to defend against the allergen” (Mayo Clinic Website). 

Symptoms of seasonal allergies vary from person to person. But, some of the most common symptoms of allergies are “sneezing, Itching of the nose, eyes, or roof of the mouth, runny, stuffy nose, and watery, red, or swollen eyes” as stated on the Mayo Clinic website. Allergic reactions can range from mild to severe depending on how each person reacts to the allergen. 

While most allergies can’t be cured, treatments and medicine can help relieve allergy symptoms. Depending on how severe your allergy is, over the counter or prescribed medication can help ease allergy symptoms. The medication can be in the form of pills or liquid, nasal sprays, or eyedrops. The top three antihistamine medications are Zyrtec, Claritin, and Allegra. “These are all different drugs, and really, which one is best is a matter of patient preference” (Your Teen website). The best medication would be the one that is the most effective for you. 

For more severe allergies, your doctor may recommend allergen immunotherapy. “The immunotherapy treatment involves a series of injections of purified allergen extract, usually given over a period of a few years” (Mayo Clinic Website). “Allergy shots are over 90% effective when given properly. It has been proven in clinical studies to decrease allergy symptoms, medication use, prevent new allergies and asthma in children, and promote lasting-relief of allergy symptoms even after treatment is stopped,” as stated on the Allergy & Asthma Care website. 

So how do you deal with seasonal allergies? First, find out what exactly it is you’re allergic to. Once you find out what you’re allergic to, you can look for a specific medication that can help relieve the symptoms you’re experiencing. If the medication doesn’t help and you notice that your allergies aren’t getting any better, then maybe you should look into getting allergy shots.  

As a person who deals with seasonal allergies, I understand how frustrating it can be to try to enjoy the nice weather when dealing with allergies. But thankfully I found medication that helps relieve the majority of the symptoms I experience.