Seasonal allergies are most common during the warmer months of
spring, summer and fall when the number of plants, grasses and
trees that are budding and blooming is much higher. The
concentration of pollens in the air is high and you’re also
outside more enjoying the warm weather, thus increasing your
exposure to these pollens. Seasonal allergies occur when your
immune system reacts vigorously to air-borne allergens by
releasing histamine and other substances that cause swelling and
irritation.

What Are The Symptoms?

The classic symptoms of seasonal allergies include sneezing,
runny nose, nasal congestion, and eyes that are itchy, swollen,
red and watery. You may also experience an itchy throat,
post-nasal drainage and cough.

If you have persistent pain or develop a fever, there may be a
bacterial infection that has developed as a secondary
complication from the swelling and obstruction. In this case, a
visit to our clinic is strongly recommended.

Seasonal vs. Perennial Allergies

Not all allergies are seasonal. Some are perennial, or
year-round. Perennial allergens may be found inside the home,
including dust mites, animal hair or dander, and mold. These
allergens can be reduced with vacuuming, cleaning, and using
protective covers for upholstery and bedding. Some people have
both seasonal and perennial allergies.

How Are Seasonal Allergies Treated?

A number of over-the-counter medications (mostly antihistamines
and decongestants) are available to provide relief for sufferers
of seasonal allergies, although they do have potential side
effects.

Some natural substances have an antihistamine or
anti-inflammatory effect and are useful for seasonal allergies.
They include vitamins C and B complex, tyrosine, quercetin,
stinging nettles, curcumin, and other herbs containing
bioflavonoids. An antioxidant formula may also be helpful.

If you have symptoms of a seasonal allergy, and want to avoid the
possible side effects of medications,
call our clinic for our seasonal allergy supplement
recommendations.

Self Help Strategies

Reduction of exposure to pollens or other air-borne allergens is
very important; try to stay away from areas where the allergen is
present. During allergy season, it is often helpful to use the
air conditioner to keep cool, so that you can sleep with your
windows closed or drive with your windows closed and thus reduce
your exposure to allergens. Removing or cleaning “allergen traps”
(such as carpets or drapes) and changing air filters regularly
can be beneficial. Use of an air ionizer will decrease the number
of particles in the air and may also provide some relief.

Regular nasal irrigation with a saline (salt water) solution is
helpful. Flushing the nasal passages with a saline nasal spray
two, three or more times daily reduces the irritating effect of
allergens in the mucus membranes of the nose. Similarly, rinsing
your eyes with artificial tears can reduce allergic eye symptoms.

If allergy symptoms persist, be sure to
call one of our clinics for assistance. It’s
possible that you have other allergies (environmental or food) or
a chronic disease that is also causing inflammation. Your “total
load” of inflammation may be exacerbating your seasonal allergy.
We will help you to identify and deal with all the factors that
are causing your allergy.