If you suffer from allergies, experts are saying we’re experiencing a more intense allergy season this year in Southern California mainly due to recent heavy rains that have led to an explosion of plant growth and pollen in the air.
As spring approaches and temperatures get warmer and drier, more plants mean more pollen in the air. More pollen means allergy symptoms may be stronger and could last longer this year, according to Dr. Salima Thobani, an allergist/immunologist with Kaiser Permanente Southern California.
“There’s little doubt that many people are struggling with their allergies in a season that has arrived much earlier than we’re used to,” Thobani said. “However, you can take simple steps to alleviate your symptoms and feel better.”
What Allergies and Symptoms are Most Common?
According to Thobani, the most common seasonal allergies are caused by pollen from trees, grasses and weeds.
Typical symptoms include:
● Sneezing
● Itchy eyes and itchy nose
● Watery eyes
● Nasal congestion or runny nose
● Post-nasal drip
● And sometimes fatigue due to poor sleep from allergy symptoms
When do Allergy Symptoms get Worse?
Allergy symptoms often worsen in the morning when pollen levels are highest.
“Symptoms can also worsen on hot or windy days when pollen spreads more easily in the air,” Thobani noted. “If people need to spend time outdoors, it may be better to go outside later in the afternoon or evening, when pollen levels tend to be lower.”
Tips to Reduce Pollen Exposure
There are several simple steps people can take to reduce exposure to pollen, Thobani advised:
● Check daily pollen counts in your area.
● Keep windows closed at home and in the car during peak pollen season.
● Limit outdoor activity when pollen counts are high.
● Shower and change clothes after spending time outdoors to remove pollen.
● Avoid drying laundry outside, since pollen can stick to fabrics.
● Wear sunglasses outdoors to help protect the eyes.
● Consider using a HEPA air filter in your home to reduce allergens such as pollen, dust and pet dander.
● Try to keep shoes outside the bedroom or outside the house to avoid bringing pollen indoors.
Treatment Options
The good news is that there are effective treatments available for seasonal allergies. Over-the-counter antihistamines can help relieve symptoms like sneezing and itching, Thobani said.
“For people with moderate or more severe symptoms, nasal steroid sprays such as fluticasone or triamcinolone are very effective at reducing inflammation and controlling symptoms during allergy season,” she noted. “It’s often best to start these medications early in the allergy season and take them consistently.”
Best Time to Take Allergy Medication
Allergy symptoms such as runny nose, watery eyes and sneezing often peak in the morning, so taking allergy medication at night can help maximize its effectiveness when symptoms are worst.
When Should Someone See a Doctor?
“People should seek medical care if their allergies interfere with sleep, work and daily activities, or if symptoms do not improve with over-the-counter medications,” Thobani said. “If someone experiences shortness of breath or wheezing, they should seek immediate medical attention.”
For people who have allergies that return every year, there is also a treatment called allergy immunotherapy, which can help reduce symptoms over time, Thobani noted.
Kaiser Permanente offers information on how you can better handle your allergies at https://healthy.kaiserpermanente.org/health-wellness/health-encyclopedia/he.allergies.center1001.