Tame Your Seasonal Allergies—Naturally
As pollen counts rise, so do sniffles, sneezes, and itchy eyes. While medications can help, simple lifestyle changes can make a big difference. Here are a few strategies we recommend:
- Keep windows closed on high pollen days. Use air conditioning instead of fans.
- Shower and change clothes after being outdoors to remove pollen.
- Use a HEPA filter in your home to reduce airborne allergens.
- Check the daily pollen forecast and limit outdoor activity when it’s high.
- Rinse your nasal passages with a saline spray or neti pot.
Watch for other triggers, too:
- Dust mites, mold, and pet dander can worsen allergy symptoms—keep your home well-ventilated and clean.
- Yardwork and gardening? Try wearing a mask and sunglasses to limit exposure.
These small steps can go a long way toward helping you feel better and breathe easier all season long.
3 Proven Treatments for Allergy Relief
If lifestyle changes aren’t enough to control your seasonal allergies, here are three commonly used and effective medication options:
- Nasal Steroids (such as Flonase/fluticasone):
- Reduces inflammation in the nasal passages to relieve congestion, runny nose, sneezing, and itching.
- Works best when used daily, not just as needed.
- Can take a few days to reach full effect.
- Available over the counter.
- Antihistamine Nasal Spray (such as Astepro ):
- Targets histamine directly in the nose to reduce sneezing, runny nose, and itching.
- Works quickly (often within 15–30 minutes).
- Can be used alone or in combination with a nasal steroid for added benefit.
- May have a slightly bitter taste or cause mild drowsiness in some patients.
- Oral Antihistamine (such as Claritin, Zyrtec, Allegra):
- Helps control itching, sneezing, and runny nose.
- Easy to take once daily.
- Some options (like Zyrtec or Benadryl) may cause drowsiness—others (like Claritin and Allegra) are less sedating.
Many patients find that a combination of treatments—like a nasal steroid plus an oral antihistamine—provides the best relief.