Breathe easier: Managing seasonal allergies in springtime

As temperatures rise and flowers start blooming, the spring season is finally here. But springtime brings more than just sunshine and brightly colored landscapes — for millions of Americans, it also signals the start of allergy season. For those affected, this time of year can mean weeks or even months of frustrating symptoms like sneezing, watery eyes and nasal congestion. Fortunately, CareNow® urgent care is here to help. Our team of physician-led providers can help offer guidance on how you can navigate the spring with minimal disruption to your routine. With the right knowledge and treatment, relief is within your reach.

When is allergy season?

If you're wondering when exactly allergy season is, the answer can vary depending on your location and specific allergy triggers. However, most people begin experiencing symptoms in early spring — typically around March — when tree pollen is at its peak. This is followed by grass pollen in the late spring and early summer and then weed pollen in the fall.

In warmer climates, seasonal allergies may start earlier and last longer. And while spring allergies are most commonly associated with tree pollen, other types of pollen from mold, grass and weeds may contribute to symptoms throughout the year.

What causes seasonal allergy symptoms?

Seasonal allergies, also known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis, are triggered by the immune system’s overreaction to pollen and other airborne allergens. When you breathe in pollen, your body may mistake it for a threat and release chemicals like histamine, which leads to inflammation and other symptoms.

Common seasonal allergy symptoms include:

• Sneezing
• Itchy or watery eyes
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Itchy skin
• Redness or rashes
• Difficult breathing
• Swelling of the tongue or throat

If you experience these symptoms year after year during certain months, chances are you’re dealing with seasonal allergies.

Allergy medication options

Finding the best allergy medication for your symptoms can make a big difference in your comfort and daily functioning. There are several categories of allergy medicine to consider.

Antihistamines

Antihistamines block the effects of histamine, a chemical that your immune system produces. These medications help with sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. Common over-the-counter options include:

• Cetirizine (Zyrtec)
• Loratadine (Claritin)
• Fexofenadine (Allegra)
• Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)

Nasal corticosteroid sprays

If you find that antihistamine medications aren't effective for your nasal congestion, there are nasal spray options available that might help you breathe better. These sprays reduce inflammation in the nasal passages and are often considered the most effective treatment for nasal allergy symptoms. However, nasal corticosteroid sprays are only effective when used every day. They are not useful when used episodically or only "as needed."

• Fluticasone (Flonase)
• Triamcinolone (Nasacort)
• Budesonide (Rhinocort)

Decongestants

For short-term relief from nasal congestion, decongestants like pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) or nasal sprays like oxymetazoline (Afrin) can be helpful. However, nasal sprays should not be used for more than three days in a row due to the risk of rebound congestion.

Eye drops and saline rinses

If you suffer from itchy or irritated eyes, antihistamine eye drops may bring relief. Saline nasal sprays or rinses can also help wash out allergens from your nose.

Managing spring allergies day-to-day

In addition to allergy medicine, there are steps you can take to reduce exposure to allergens:

• Keep windows closed during high pollen days
• Use HEPA filters in your home
• Shower and change clothes after spending time outdoors
• Monitor local pollen counts and limit time outside when levels are high
• Wash bedding frequently in hot water
• Avoid line-drying clothes or sheets outdoors, where they can collect pollen

When to see a provider

If your symptoms are interfering with your daily life or aren’t responding to over-the-counter medications, it may be time to see a healthcare provider. In some cases, allergies can lead to complications such as sinus infections or asthma flare-ups.

At CareNow® urgent care, our experienced providers can assess your symptoms, rule out other causes like viral infections and help you find the most effective treatment. Should you need additional care, CareNow is a part of HCA Healthcare, which connects us to a comprehensive network of hospitals, physician practices and other care sites.

Don’t let allergy season slow you down

Spring should be a time to enjoy the outdoors—not dread it. If seasonal allergies are holding you back, CareNow urgent care is here to help. We offer extended hours and convenient locations to get you the care you need so you can feel better fast.

Why choose CareNow®

If you need convenient care after hours or on the weekend, consider visiting your local CareNow® urgent care clinic. With 225 locations throughout the country, we are ready to see you when you need it most. We offer comprehensive and accessible healthcare through our extensive clinic network, convenient Web Check-In® service, and Virtual Visits, making us a dependable option for your medical needs. Visit the CareNow locations webpage to find a clinic near you.