Allergy season is upon us. How long do we have to endure all this sneezing?
“There isn’t one single ‘worst’ time for everyone, as it really depends on what specific allergens trigger an individual’s symptoms,” board-certified allergist and immunologist Dr. Kara Wada says. “However, we definitely see distinct peaks.”
Research has also shown that allergy seasons are getting longer and more intense thanks to climate change.
“Warmer temperatures are leading to earlier springs and later frosts,” Wada explains. “This isn’t just a perception; it’s backed by data showing increased pollen counts and longer growing seasons. Prepare for potentially tougher seasons ahead.”
Here’s when you should be on the lookout for allergy peaks, and what allergy experts say you can do to prevent reactions.
Tired of suffering in allergy season? These tips from an expert may offer relief
When is allergy season?
There are three periods every year when different types of pollen reach their peak. The spring (roughly March through May or June) is dominated by tree pollen, late spring and summer (May to July) features grass pollen and late summer and fall (August to October or November) brings weed pollens such as ragweed, Wada says.
“The worst time of year for allergies depends on what an individual is allergic to,” adds board-certified allergist and immunologist Dr. Sakina Bajowala. “If you are allergic to multiple environmental allergens, symptoms may be most bothersome during those months when you have an overlap of multiple allergens.”
May sees an overlap between tree and grass pollen, which leads to “particularly high overall pollen loads, making it a notoriously difficult month for many allergy sufferers across the U.S.,” Wada notes.
Typically, seasonal allergies stop as soon as the specific pollen or mold you’re allergic to remains in the air, Wada adds. But they typically come back every year, Bajowala notes. And there are also year-round allergies that can be triggered by causes including dust mites, pet dander, cockroaches, indoor mold or food allergens.
Did you see? Allergy sufferers expected to have worse season than usual: See pollen maps
How to get rid of allergy symptoms
Effective management of seasonal allergy symptoms often requires multiple approaches, Wada says. Key tactics include:
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Avoidance. Wada recommends monitoring daily pollen and mold counts online and staying indoors with closed windows on days with especially high pollen counts. At home, Bajowala suggests installing HEPA filters and washing bedding weekly in hot water. When you do go outside, shower afterward and change your clothes. And if you’re doing yard work or spending a lot of time outside on high pollen days, an N95 or KN95 mask can help, too.
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Over-the-counter (OTC) medications. A number of products found in your local drug store can help, including nasal steroid sprays (which work best when used consistently beginning two to four weeks before allergy season), antihistamines (make sure to pick out a non-drowsy option) and saline nasal rinses (such as a neti pot or saline spray bottle, which can help flush pollen and mucus out of your nasal passages).
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Consulting a doctor or allergy specialist. “If OTC measures aren’t providing enough relief, it’s time to see an allergist,” Wada says. “We can confirm your specific triggers through testing and discuss prescription medications or other therapies like immunotherapy.”
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: When is allergy season?
