How long do seasonal allergies last?

Reviewed by Theresa H. Care Delivery Manager & Family Nurse Practitioner

Time saver 3 min read

Ahh, the great outdoors. There’s nothing like going for a stroll or jog through your neighborhood or hitting an area bike trail. But when budding trees give way to itchy eyes, a stuffy nose and sneezing fits – you’re left feeling miserable. Yep, there’s no doubt about it – seasonal allergies are back in season. And, if you’re one of the estimated 60 million people who suffer from allergies or allergic rhinitis, you’re probably wondering when your symptoms will subside. How long do seasonal allergies last anyway?

The answer to this allergy riddle is complex. That’s because seasonal allergies strike at different times depending on where you live. For example, come mid-March, pollen counts from juniper trees are off the charts in Colorado Springs, CO, moderately high in Philadelphia, PA and barely registering in colder climates like Minneapolis, MN. As more things bud and sprout – pollen and other airborne allergens like mold spores catch a ride on air currents. These allergens land on and in anything they come into contact with – including your skin, clothing, eyes, nose and lungs. 

The good news is that seasonal allergies are just that – seasonal. That means your allergy symptoms should eventually subside as weather patterns shift. The not so good news is that seasonal allergies can happen in the spring, summer and fall – typically only relenting when trees and grasses go dormant or die off for the season. Thankfully, you don’t need to suffer through months of itching, sneezing and coughing. You can get relief from allergy symptoms by avoiding common allergy triggers and using over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription allergy medications.

Be prepared

Before heading outside, check out the allergy index where you live.

See pollen counts

Beware seasonal allergy triggers

In addition to itchy eyes, nasal congestion and a scratchy throat, seasonal allergies can make you feel tired and irritable. They can make it hard to participate in and enjoy life. Think about it. When you’re experiencing allergy symptoms, all you want to do is lay low. You may call in sick to work and cancel plans with friends. But it doesn’t have to be this way. It is possible to get your allergies under control.  

To quiet allergy symptoms, it’s important to reduce your exposure to pollen, mold and other common allergens that trigger your body’s immune response.  

Reduce seasonal allergy triggers

  • Limit the amount of time you spend outdoors 
  • Keep windows in your home and car closed  
  • Invest in an air purifier for your home and office 
  • Shower and launder clothing after being outside   
  • Exercise towards evening when pollen counts tend to be lower 

 

Did you know that exposure to common seasonal allergens like pollen, can worsen asthma symptoms? Learn more about how to manage seasonal allergies and treat asthma flare-ups 

Allergy treatment available online

There’s no cure for seasonal allergies. And, let’s face it – unless you plan to move around in a protective bubble, it’s pretty much impossible to avoid allergens. While it’s important to take steps to reduce your exposure to pollen and mold, many people also need to take allergy medication. But what allergy meds will work for you? Do you need a prescription nasal steroid? Previously, to get an allergy treatment plan tailored to your needs, you had to see an allergy specialist. This often meant getting a referral from your primary doctor, waiting weeks or months for an appointment and then going through a series of tests. 

Did you know

Untreated allergies can lead to ear and sinus infections?

Get sinus infection treatment online

Today you don’t need to jump through all these hoops. You can get an allergy treatment plan that’s tailored to your specific needs online. Your plan may include over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription allergy medications and nasal sprays as well as helpful tips on ways to relieve nasal swelling and congestion.  

Breathe easier knowing that relief from seasonal allergy symptoms is just a few clicks away. Visit our 24/7 online clinic today.  

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