Seasonal allergies: how to prevent and treat symptoms
There are certain times of the year when seasonal allergy symptoms really take hold, such as stuffy noses, sneezing and watery eyes. Also known as allergic rhinitis, this condition does not affect all people equally. What are seasonal allergies? Discover the causes and most effective remedies.
What are seasonal allergies?
Seasonal allergies appear during certain times of the year. They are very frequent in spring and summer, although some people also suffer from them during autumn. They are sometimes referred to as hay fever, a term that may lead to confusion since fever is not among their common symptoms.
The process is an immune system reaction to contact with certain particles suspended in the environment. Usually pollen or grasses. It is precisely this relationship with nature that causes the symptoms to manifest themselves seasonally.
So much so that seasonal allergies may appear at different times of the year, depending on the climate and location of each region.
Common symptoms of seasonal allergies
It is important to point out that the symptoms of seasonal allergies affect people in differing ways. Meanwhile, the agent responsible may trigger some symptoms more than others.
Seasonal rhinitis in winter
Seasonal rhinitis in winter refers to the allergy characteristic of this time of the year. In Spain, pollen levels are low during the cold months, but symptoms linked to dust, Christmas trees or pets may appear.
People suffering from seasonal rhinitis experience their symptoms in indoor spaces with poor ventilation. The most common signs are stuffy noses, sneezing and watery eyes.
Seasonal allergy symptoms in springtime
Spring is the time of year with the highest incidence of seasonal allergies. Pollen levels in the environment are very high. In addition, frequent gusts of wind make it easier for these agents to spread.
The main symptoms of seasonal allergy in spring include runny or stuffy noses, sneezing and itching. All of them are usually concentrated in the membrane lining the inner cavity of the nose. Watery eyes may also appear if the spores affect the eyes.
Symptoms of seasonal allergy in autumn
Ragweed and dust mites are often the main causes of seasonal allergies in the autumn. The main symptoms at this time of the year are an itchy nose, glassy eyes, runny nose and sneezing.
Specific signs of seasonal allergies
Temporary allergy may also be expressed in specific ways. Here are some of them.
Seasonal eye allergy
When agents that react with the immune system affect the membrane that covers the eyelids and the white of the eye, conditions such as allergic conjunctivitis may appear.
Sufferers experience itchy eyes and redness in this area. Another common sign of seasonal allergies is watery eyes.
Seasonal allergy in the throat
Seasonal allergy symptoms affecting the throat are related to tingling or irritation in the area. It may on occasion also affect the palate. Sufferers often experience an itchy throat and coughing fits.
Impact on quality of life and sleep
It is important to note that seasonal allergies do not only trigger physical reactions. There is a very significant impact on the sufferer's quality of life. Fatigue and lack of energy tend to be common consequences affecting the performance of sufferers.
Another impact that we tend to overlook, despite its significance, is the effect on sleep quality. Sneezing, blocked noses and itching make it difficult to fall asleep. Properly dealing with the symptoms is essential to minimise the negative effects and so contribute to a healthy lifestyle.
Causes and triggers of seasonal allergies
As mentioned, nature's reproductive cycles and our habits in each season of the year mean we are more exposed to certain allergens. These are the main triggering factors:
| Season | Causes of seasonal allergy | Characteristics |
| Spring | Tree pollen. | Such as pines, blueberries, oats, rye or Bermuda grass. |
| Spring | Mould. | Fungi on rotting trunks and leaves that release spores. |
| Spring | Weed pollen. | In spring, weeds and grasses sprout on the ground. |
| Summer | Grass pollen. | Very characteristic of swimming pools and gardens. |
| Summer | Tree pollen. | Nettle, for example. |
| Autumn | Ragweed pollen. | This species grows around natural springs and pollinates in September and October. |
| Autumn | Dust. | Which builds up in unused heating systems, for example. |
| Winter | Pets. | They produce allergy through contact with dander from their fur. |
| Winter | Mites. | They proliferate in carpets, blankets and sofas. |
What causes seasonal allergic rhinitis?
Common signs of seasonal allergic rhinitis are related to sneezing and runny noses. However, more severe cases may cause headaches and earache due to poor drainage of the paranasal sinuses. Some people may even end up developing bronchial asthma.
How to prevent seasonal allergy symptoms
Do you suffer from seasonal allergies? Here are some tips to prevent their symptoms.
Reduce exposure to allergens
Avoiding contact with allergens is essential. The specific advice is to reduce outdoor activities between 5 and 10 a.m., the period of highest pollen emission. Also, limit time spent outdoors between 7 and 10 p.m., when pollen descends from the atmosphere as the air cools.
If you are travelling by car, it is best to keep the windows closed and turn on the vehicle's own ventilation systems.
Remember not to hang washing on terraces, balconies or garden clothes lines, as pollen residues adhere easily to fabrics.
Changes in the home and daily habits
Vacuum carpets, sofas, cushions and sheets regularly to trap any allergens. Another effective tip for the home is to install an air purifier with a good HEPA filter capable of trapping the tiny particles that cause allergies.
Keep windows closed at night and try to stay indoors as much as possible. And remember to ensure good daily hygiene. Shower every time you come back home and wash your hands frequently.
Treatments and remedies for seasonal allergy
There are several medications that help reduce the symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis. You should always remember to take these under specialist supervision, however:
- Antihistamines. They help block or reduce the symptoms caused by allergies.
- Decongestants. Solutions are available in liquid or spray form to relieve nasal pressure.
- Nasal corticosteroids. They reduce inflammation of the nasal passages.
- Immunotherapies. A series of injections is available to treat those with more severe allergies. This requires medical supervision, and aims to develop some natural immunity.
FAQ
How do I know if I have a seasonal allergy?
There are medical procedures in which an allergy can be diagnosed by means of skin tests. It can also be detected by correlating pollen contact with common seasonal allergy symptoms.
How can I relieve seasonal allergy symptoms?
Treatments based on antihistamines or decongestant solutions are effective in relieving symptoms.
What are the symptoms of seasonal allergy in winter?
Sneezing, runny nose, sore throat, eyes and nostrils, and watery eyes are the most common symptoms.
What remedies are most effective for seasonal rhinitis in winter?
Installing an air purifier helps to eliminate germs, dust mites and pollen from the environment. Frequent vacuum cleaning of carpets, sofas and fabrics is also recommended.
How do seasonal allergies affect the eyes and throat?
Irritation and itching of the throat and eyes are commonly caused by allergies.
What to do if symptoms worsen in spring or autumn?
The advice is to consult a medical specialist if symptoms worsen during spring and autumn.