Seasonal allergies, what you need to know

As fall allergy season is winding down, it is a great time for you to consider a formal allergy evaluation in preparation of your allergy care for the incoming allergy seasons.  

Allergy triggers by season

While Allergy symptoms are similar among allergy sufferers, allergens triggering the allergy symptoms and timing of onset of symptoms may differ depending on the seasonal changes. Allergy season usually starts in late March and comes to closure in early November after the first frost in the Greater Mid-Hudson valley region in the State of New York.

• Early spring allergies: dominated by tree pollens including birch, oak, maple, ash, beech, and among others.  
• Late spring and early summer allergies: predominant by the grass pollens such as Kentucky Blue grass, Timothy and Orchard grasses.
• Fall allergies: prevalent with weed pollens such as Ragweed, Goldenrod and Thistle, and mold spores.  

Symptoms by season

Despite different allergy triggers, spring and fall allergies share similar allergy symptoms, including but not limited to:
Sneezing

• Itchy, watery and puffy eyes
• Runny and/or stuffy nose
• Itchy and scratchy throat
• Coughing or postnasal drip

Spring allergies: Usually begins in late March, peaks in April and May, and draws to a close by late June in our area. Spring allergies are often perceived as more intense than summer and fall allergies due to the massive release of different types of tree pollens into the air in a relatively short period of time, and cause more bothersome eye symptoms, sneezing and clear running nose due to both allergic and irritative effects from the fine light pollens.  

Fall allergies: Begins in mid-August, peaking in the month of September and October, and ending in early November. Nasal symptoms such as nasal congestion and postnasal drip may be more prominent for fall allergy sufferers. 

It is common for individuals to have both spring and fall allergies.  Some asthmatic patients may suffer asthma exacerbations during either or both seasons.  

Seek allergy evaluation from an Allergy & Immunology specialist

If you are uncertain of your allergy triggers, you should consult an allergy and immunology specialist. The allergy providers at Crystal Run Healthcare are here for all your allergy care needs. 

While both blood testing and skin testing are available, skin testing is considered the gold standard by which we evaluate your seasonal allergies, and tailor your personalized treatment plan including creating a safe and effective immunotherapy (allergy shots) regimen, should you require allergy shots.  

It’s important to stop taking over the counter or prescribed antihistamines for at least 7 days prior to your scheduled allergy evaluation as these medications may interfere with skin testing and interrupt the interpretation of test results.

Managing your seasonal allergies

Management starts with environmental control to avoid being exposed to your allergy triggers. When it comes to your home, keep windows closed, when possible, especially during high pollen count days, and vacuum frequently with a vacuum that has a HEPA filter to keep the inside of your home as free from allergens as possible. Limit your time outside during the dry and windy days and consider wearing a mask when gardening or mowing to reduce pollen exposure. Showering after known pollen exposure helps remove allergens from your body and hair.

Over-the-counter allergy medications may provide symptom relief to some. There are many options to choose from, including corticosteroid and antihistamine nasal sprays, non-sedating antihistamines, as well as antihistamine eye drops.

Not every sneeze is related to an allergy and over the counter allergy medication is not suitable for everyone’s needs. Taking over the counter allergy medication without a confirmed allergy diagnosis could be potentially harmful. Talk to your doctor to discuss your symptoms and consider allergy testing. 

Understanding seasonal allergies can help you anticipate allergy symptoms, implement effective preventive environmental measures, seek appropriate treatments, and ultimately improve your overall comfort and quality of life during the allergy seasons.

The experienced allergy and immunology team at Crystal Run is here for you. Schedule an appointment today.