Do you suffer from allergies? If you do, this article is for you! by Dr. Lisa Leslie-Williams

For millions of Americans, even the thought of spring makes their eyes burn, itch, and water. Spring and summer bring longer days and blooming landscapes, but they also mark the peak of spring allergies and summer allergies for many people. If you suffer from seasonal eye allergies and are tired of the stinging medications that take control over your life because of their rebound effect, you may want to consider an alternative approach that stimulates your body’s natural ability to relieve symptoms.

Allergy Season

Spring and summer bring longer days and blooming landscapes, but for many, they also signal the start of allergy season—also known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis. During this time, the immune system can become overly sensitive to airborne allergens like tree pollen, grass pollen, weed pollen, and mold spores. When these tiny particles are inhaled, the body releases histamines and other chemicals, leading to a cascade of allergy symptoms.

Understanding seasonal allergies is the first step toward effective symptom relief. Whether your triggers are tree pollen in early spring, grass pollen in late spring and summer, or weed pollen as the season winds down, knowing what sets off your symptoms can help you take control. Allergy season can bring anything from mild sniffles to more severe reactions, depending on your sensitivity and the pollen count in your area.

Minimizing exposure to allergens—by keeping windows closed, using air conditioning, and monitoring local pollen counts—can make a significant difference. If you’re unsure about the best way to manage your allergies, consulting a healthcare provider can help you develop a personalized plan for the season ahead.

Understanding Allergy Symptoms

Allergy symptoms can show up in many ways, and no two people experience them exactly the same. For some, seasonal allergies mean a constant runny nose and sneezing fits; for others, it’s itchy, watery eyes or persistent nasal congestion. These common symptoms are the body’s response to allergens like pollen, dust mites, or mold spores, and they can range from a mild nuisance to a major disruption in daily life.

Allergic rhinitis, or hay fever, is one of the most widespread conditions triggered by seasonal allergies. Typical symptoms include sneezing, runny nose, stuffy or itchy nose, sinus pressure, and watery eyes. In some cases, allergies can even worsen asthma-like symptoms, making it harder to breathe or causing chest tightness.

Recognizing these symptoms early is key to finding the right treatment and achieving symptom relief. Many people find that over-the-counter medications, such as oral antihistamines or nasal sprays, help manage their symptoms. Others may turn to natural remedies or allergy immunotherapy for longer-term relief. By understanding the causes and signs of seasonal allergies, you can take proactive steps to reduce your discomfort and enjoy the beauty of the season.

Natural Eye Relief

Antihistamine eye drops or artificial tears may provide temporary relief but they don’t address the problem as well as homeopathic preparations that gently stimulate the body’s natural ability to relieve symptoms for those who experience burning, itching, and watering of the eyes, causing watery eyes. Products such as Similasan Allergy Eye Relief contain natural active ingredients: no dyes, chemical vasoconstrictors, decongestants, or steroids. They can be used regularly without that annoying rebound effect. Moreover, they help to activate your body’s own defense mechanisms to address the underlying problem.

Support Your Immune System

The immune system plays an important role in your body’s reaction to allergens. By focusing on good nutrition, and taking steps to support your immune system, you may be able to say goodbye to itchy eyes, itchy nose, sneezing, nasal congestion, and other allergy symptoms. The great thing about natural and/or homeopathic remedies, such as Similasan, is that there are also kids’ formulas available so the whole family benefits. Some people also try herbal remedies for allergy relief, but scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness is limited and they may not be suitable for everyone.

To support your immune system consider doing the following…

Eat plenty of vibrantly colored fruits and vegetables:

These play important roles in balancing the immune system. There is now science to support the old adage: “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” Apples contain quercetin, an antioxidant that has antihistamine and anti-inflammatory properties. Consuming these foods can help reduce inflammation associated with allergy symptoms. Peppers, onions, and garlic contain compounds that help thin and reduce mucus. Drink plenty of water to clear your body of irritating pollen through secretions.

Use caution about eating potentially inflammatory foods:

The biggest culprits are foods like dairy, sugar, wheat, and even grain.

Sip on an anti-inflammatory cooler:

One of my family’s favorites is a pineapple ginger cooler. It contains pineapple peel and ginger, both of which are natural anti-inflammatory agents and a refreshing drink to have on a warm day.

Add local honey to your daily diet:

The mechanism by which honey helps to relieve allergy symptoms is three-fold. First, honey helps to soothe the throat. Second, honey is a natural cough suppressant. A study found 2 teaspoons of honey to be just as effective as dextromethorphan (the main ingredient in cough syrup). Third, the pollen that bees use to make honey is ingested when you eat local honey. The immune system then becomes sensitized over time, which may make you less sensitive to pollen. Consuming local honey may be especially beneficial during periods of high pollen count in your area, as this is when allergy symptoms tend to be more severe.

Cleanse your nasal passages:

Neti pots have become very popular right now – and with good reason. Most people know that they are a safe and natural way to help your body’s natural mechanism for clearing your sinuses of bacteria and allergens, and to alleviate nasal symptoms such as sneezing, congestion, nasal stuffiness, and a runny nose caused by allergies. As well, use an air purifier to remove allergens from your home.

Capture the power of essential oils:

Peppermint and eucalyptus oils have been used as a part of total health and well-being for a long time. Rub on chest and/or back or use as part of aromatherapy in a diffuser.

Make exercise part of your routine:

Regularly getting moderate-intensity exercise will help reduce your stress while boosting your immune system. It’s a win-win!

Make sleep a priority:

Your mind and bodywork better when they are well-rested, and that applies to your body’s defenses against allergens. Aim for at least seven or eight hours of uninterrupted sleep every night.

Live healthfully every single day:

Compliance is critical. If you are taking supplements or essential medications, such as allergy medication, take them as recommended to get the most benefits.

Allergy Medication Options

When it comes to managing seasonal allergy symptoms, there are a variety of allergy medication options to consider. Over-the-counter medications like oral antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal sprays can provide temporary relief from sneezing, runny nose, and nasal congestion. These medications are often the first line of defense for many people during allergy season.

For those with more persistent or severe symptoms, prescription options may be necessary. Nasal corticosteroids and steroid nasal sprays are highly effective at reducing inflammation in the nasal passages and relieving nasal symptoms. Antihistamine nasal sprays can also help control itching and congestion without causing drowsiness.

If you’re looking for long-term relief, allergy shots—also known as allergen immunotherapy—may be recommended by your healthcare provider. This treatment involves gradually increasing doses of the allergen to help your immune system build tolerance, reducing the severity of seasonal allergy symptoms over time.

It’s important to talk to your doctor or healthcare provider to determine which allergy medication is best for your specific needs. They can help you weigh the benefits and potential side effects of each option, ensuring you get the most effective and safe symptom relief.

Try Something New to Help Your Allergies

If you try these strategies and you still aren’t getting symptom relief, try a bedbug-proof pillow cover. What some people think are seasonal allergies are actually not seasonal allergies at all. If you’re looking for nighttime allergy relief from sneezing, runny nose, and even a dry hacking cough, that could mean bed bugs, dust mites, or pet dander—another common indoor allergen that can trigger year-round allergy symptoms.

Taking better care of yourself will give you more time to stop and enjoy all of the good things that the season has to offer. Remember, if you are opting to use a natural or homeopathic approach to treat seasonal allergies or anything else for that matter, the effects will be more gradual. Some people turn to natural remedies for allergy relief, though their effectiveness may vary and scientific evidence supporting their use is limited. Consult your doctor, stick with it and adjust up or down as needed.

Role of a Healthcare Provider

Managing seasonal allergies can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. A healthcare provider is your partner in finding the best strategies for allergy relief. They can help pinpoint the specific allergens causing your symptoms—whether it’s tree pollen, grass pollen, weed pollen, or something else—through blood tests or skin prick tests.

Once your triggers are identified, your healthcare provider can recommend a tailored treatment plan. This might include prescription medications like nasal corticosteroids, guidance on using over-the-counter medications, or even allergen immunotherapy for long-term relief. They can also suggest lifestyle changes, such as using air purifiers to improve indoor air quality, staying indoors during high pollen counts, and minimizing exposure to known allergens.

Regular check-ins with your healthcare provider ensure your treatment plan stays effective and can be adjusted as needed. With their support, you can better manage your seasonal allergies, reduce the impact of symptoms on your daily life, and enjoy the spring and summer months with greater comfort and confidence.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While many people find relief from seasonal allergies with home remedies and over-the-counter allergy medications, there are times when it’s important to reach out to a healthcare provider for extra support. If your allergy symptoms—like sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, or nasal congestion—become severe or start interfering with your daily life, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice. Persistent symptoms that don’t improve with standard allergy medicine, or side effects from medications, are clear signs that you may need a different approach.

Asthma-like symptoms, such as wheezing, shortness of breath, or chest tightness, should never be ignored and require immediate medical attention. If you’re unsure what’s triggering your seasonal allergy symptoms—whether it’s tree pollen, grass pollen, weed pollen, or something else—a healthcare provider can help identify the cause through allergy testing. They can also recommend ways to minimize exposure and reduce allergy symptoms, especially during peak pollen season.

For some, prescription treatments like nasal corticosteroids or even allergy shots (allergen immunotherapy) may be necessary for long-term relief. These options are especially helpful if over-the-counter medications aren’t enough or if you experience year-round allergies. Your healthcare provider can guide you through the different types of allergy medications available, from oral antihistamines to nasal sprays, and help you find the best treatment plan for your unique needs.

Remember, if your symptoms are accompanied by fever, difficulty breathing, signs of a severe allergic reaction, or if you experience a sudden worsening of your allergies, it’s important to get medical help right away. By working closely with your healthcare provider, you can better understand your allergies, manage your symptoms, and enjoy the spring and summer seasons with greater comfort and confidence.

What do you do to take care of your seasonal allergies? Let us know in the comments at the bottom of this page!

About the author: Once a practicing pharmacist, Dr. Lisa Leslie-Williams is now writing prescriptions for healthy and whole living one post at a time. As the founder of The Domestic Life Stylist, a health and wellness blog, Leslie-Williams is a respected naturopathic healthy living expert, speaker, wellness blogger, Oprah Magazine Ambassador (O MagInsider), and media spokesperson.

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NOTE: This blog provides general information and discussions about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, or in any linked materials, are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.

If you or any other person has a medical concern, you should consult with your health care provider or seek other professional medical treatment.