Seasonal allergies are coming: Survival tips

The runny nose, itchy eyes, scratchy throat and accompanying fogginess affect people across the globe. When the weather goes from cool to warm or vice versa, these symptoms can hit you like a ton of bricks.

What can you do about them?

Treatments for seasonal allergies are highly effective. There are many over-the-counter medications and prescriptions that work well. Talk to your healthcare provider before taking any new medicine. There are also lifestyle changes you can make to ease symptoms.

Knowing your triggers and avoiding allergens is the first step. Your care provider may recommend treatments or medications to control inflammation and manage symptoms. 

Over-the-counter allergy treatments² include:

• Antihistamines These block the production of histamine, relieving runny noses, itching and sneezing.
• Decongestants These can reduce stuffiness. This helps make it easier to breathe.
• Corticosteroids These reduce inflammation and help control itching, sneezing and nasal symptoms.
• Saline eye drops Moisture from eye drops and nasal sprays helps ease itchy eyes and nasal passages.

Simple lifestyle changes include:

• Staying hydrated to support your immune system and overall health.
• Checking your local allergy forecast to be prepared. You can check pollen levels online or by using your favorite weather app. Know which activities to avoid and when.
• Getting enough sleep—the recommended seven to nine hours each night—to support your immune system and keep you energized.
• Managing stress through physical activity, mindfulness, music, writing or other creative outlets to reduce the risk of a weakened immune system.
• Balancing nutrition by including colorful fruits and vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains for a wide variety of vitamins and minerals.

Support your immune system

Consider the following to help naturally boost your immune system:³