Early Allergy Symptoms: What’s Going On?
Are you noticing itchy eyes and sneezing earlier than usual this year? You’re not alone.
Dr. Katelyn Jetelina, an adjunct professor at the Yale School of Public Health, indicates that “allergy seasons are definitely getting longer and more intense.” The shorter, warmer winters are, well, shortening the freezing periods. This shift allows plants to grow for longer, releasing pollen earlier in the spring and later in the fall.
One study from 2021 found that due to climate change and increasing extreme weather events, the pollen season has extended by about 20 days in North America since 1990.
In both the US and UK, seasonal allergies—often termed allergic rhinitis or hay fever—are generally triggered by tree pollen in spring, grass pollen during the summer, and weed pollen in fall. Roughly 26% of adults and around 19% of children in the US experience seasonal allergies, while in the UK, the figures range from 10-15% for children.
So, with pollen seasons becoming longer and more severe, even those who typically don’t have allergies may find themselves struggling with respiratory irritations, according to Jetelina.
Identifying Seasonal Allergies
Typical allergy symptoms include itchy, watery eyes, sneezing, nasal congestion, and sometimes even headaches or wheezing. Dr. Arveen Bhasin, an allergist at the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, emphasizes that it’s quite possible to develop allergies at any point in life.
It’s not unusual for adults who’ve never dealt with allergies to start experiencing them down the line, and moving to a new environment with different plants can often trigger this. Dr. Payel Gupta, a spokesperson for the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, mentions it typically takes about two years to develop sensitivities to new allergens.
Treating Seasonal Allergies
There are several over-the-counter medications available to help alleviate allergy symptoms. According to Bhasin, these include decongestants, antihistamines, nasal sprays, and eye drops. However, it’s crucial to start taking these medications at least two weeks before pollen season kicks in for them to be effective.
Interestingly, Bhasin points out that sometimes antihistamines can stop working after a while. If you notice a lack of symptom control, it’s possible you may have developed a tolerance. As for nasal sprays, they need consistent use over 10-14 days to truly reach their potential effectiveness, even though many people quit using them after just a few days due to a perceived lack of results.
On the other hand, experts caution against overusing decongestants because they might actually worsen nasal congestion if used for over three days. Carver advises consulting a doctor if you have specific health concerns like high blood pressure or heart issues before starting any decongestant. Gupta adds a touch of humor, expressing confusion over why these medications are available over-the-counter at all.
Making some lifestyle changes can also help limit your pollen exposure. Staying indoors much of the time, for instance, means you should be careful about how much pollen enters your home. Carver recommends keeping windows closed and running air conditioning to circulate cleaner air, as well as changing air filters regularly. During high pollen days, considering wearing a mask outside could be beneficial. Plus, when you come home, it’s wise to shower and change clothes to minimize pollen indoors.
As for air purifiers, Gupta notes they can be effective, but it’s essential to choose one suited for the size of your room.
When to Consult a Doctor
If you’ve tried these strategies and your allergy symptoms persist, it may be time to see an allergist. Gupta assures, “There are plenty of ways we can help you feel more comfortable.” If over-the-counter options aren’t doing the trick, allergists may offer treatments like allergy shots or sublingual medication to provide longer-term relief.
