- Summer allergies often begin in late spring and peak in summer.
- Typical symptoms include sneezing, runny nose, stuffy nose and itchy eyes.
- Prevention and a custom treatment plan can help manage summer allergies effectively.
Summer is a time when people enjoy longer daylight hours, warmer weather, and opportunities for outdoor recreation. While it’s generally a season many look forward to, it can also bring challenges such as summer allergies.
The increased presence of pollen, along with higher temperatures and humidity, may trigger symptoms which make outdoor enjoyment less pleasant. Stay ahead of this season by learning the causes of summer allergies, its symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.
When Do Summer Allergies Start and End?
Summer allergies typically begin in late spring, around May, when plants start to release pollen into the air. This pollen comes from several sources — especially from grasses, weeds, and trees like birch and oak — and they can trigger allergic reactions in susceptible individuals.
For people who are allergic to grasses, summer is likely when you experience the most severe allergy symptoms.
What Causes Summer Allergies?
Summer allergies are primarily caused by airborne pollen from various plants. These plants include [*]:
- Grasses. Bermuda, Blue, Timothy, Bahia, Johnson, Fescue
- Weeds. Ragweed, Sagebrush, Russian thistle, Tumbleweed, Lamb’s-quarters
- Trees. Oak, Birch, Maple, Cedar, Hickory
As temperatures rise in late spring and early summer, plants begin to bloom and release pollen into the air as part of their reproductive cycle.
Of these plants, Bermuda grass and Timothy grass are significant contributors of grass pollen, and ragweed triggers symptoms in many individuals particularly later in the summer months going into the fall months in most states. In fact, ragweed grows in 49 states in the US, making its pollen more difficult to avoid.
Additionally, trees like oak produce pollen that can cause allergies during the early summer months, and the pollen can remain in the air for longer periods.
Summer Allergies Symptoms
Summer allergy symptoms typically include:
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
- Itchy, watery eyes
- Congestion
- Post nasal drip
- Itchy throat
The intensity of summer allergies can vary depending on the pollen count, local vegetation, and individual sensitivity. Furthermore, windy days can worsen symptoms by spreading pollen more widely.
How are Summer Allergies Diagnosed?
Doctors will look for common allergy symptoms and ask you if your symptoms occur during specific times of the year or in response to activities like gardening, mowing the lawn, or being near certain plants.
To confirm the diagnosis and identify specific allergens, doctors may use skin prick tests, which involve introducing small amounts of allergens into the skin to observe reactions, or blood tests to measure specific IgE antibodies to allergens.
These tests will guide appropriate management strategies, which include avoiding allergens and taking medications.
How to Treat Summer Allergies
Staying indoors is a good idea to reduce your exposure to pollen in the air, but we know it’s not always possible. This is where the use of medications becomes beneficial.
Here are prescription or nonprescription medications that treat summer allergies:
Oral Antihistamines
Antihistamines are commonly used to manage symptoms of summer allergies, and they can be effective for many individuals.
These medications block histamine (a chemical released by the immune system) which is responsible for many of the symptoms you’ve been experiencing. They’re effective for reducing nasal itchiness, nasal discharge, and frequent sneezing [*].
Note that some antihistamines can cause drowsiness, and there are also those that do not have this sedative effect. If you need to remain alert during the day, non-sedating antihistamines are a better option.
Related: Decongestant vs. Antihistamine
Nasal Sprays
Nasal sprays are particularly effective for treating summer allergies since they deliver medication directly to the nasal passages. These sprays may include saline, antihistamines, anti-inflammatories and decongestants.
What makes nasal sprays better compared to oral medications is that they minimize systemic absorption, and this means you experience fewer side effects such as drowsiness or dry mouth.
A nasal spray like Allermi contains more than one active ingredient to provide comprehensive relief from multiple symptoms. Unlike other sprays, it combines these active ingredients at the right percentages to provide optimal relief. This precise approach means you get the benefits of multiple active ingredients without the drawbacks of a one-size-fits-all medication.
Related: How to Use Nasal Sprays Correctly
Eye Drops
Eye drops can be an effective treatment for managing summer allergies, particularly for symptoms affecting the eyes, such as itching, redness, and watering. They are a valuable addition to your allergy treatment regimen as they provide targeted relief.
Before recommending eye drops, your doctor might first suggest using artificial tears to help rinse away allergens from the surface of the eyes and provide moisture. When they do suggest eye drops, your medication would depend on your symptoms and the cause of your summer allergy.
Related: What to Do When Allergy Medicine Doesn’t Work
Tips to Combat Summer Allergies
Combating summer allergies involves a combination of preventative measures and management strategies. Below are some effective tips:
- Monitor pollen counts (many weather websites provide daily pollen forecasts)
- Stay indoors during peak pollen times, and keep your windows and doors closed.
- Use HEPA filters to eliminate pollen and other airborne particles.
- Pollen can cling to your clothes, so make sure to change clothes, leave your shoes at the door and shower after spending time outside.
- Cover up when going outdoors. This involves wearing protective clothing and sunglasses to protect yourself from airborne allergens.
When to See a Doctor for Summer Allergies
Consult with your doctor if you suspect you are suffering from summer allergies based on the symptoms and triggers you’ve noticed. Other reasons to see a doctor include symptoms persisting despite treatments or a sinus infection (a complication that can develop from allergies).
A doctor can provide a proper diagnosis, prescribe stronger medications if necessary, or recommend allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots) for long-term relief.
The Bottom Line
Enjoy the summer months more comfortably by taking these proactive steps! To better protect yourself during allergy season, integrate both preventive strategies and a reliable treatment plan which includes a custom nasal spray like Allermi.
References:
- Pollen Allergies. (2024, June 6). Asthma & Allergy Foundation of America. https://aafa.org/allergies/types-of-allergies/pollen-allergy/
- Randall, K. L., & Hawkins, C. A. (2018). Antihistamines and allergy. Australian Prescriber, 41(2), 41-45. https://doi.org/10.18773/austprescr.2018.013
