Seasonal allergy relief: Symptoms, triggers and treatment options

A person not being affected by allergies caused by pollen

From seasonal sniffles to lingering sinus pressure, allergy symptoms can be frustrating and disruptive.

Sneezing, a stuffy nose, itchy eyes, and headaches are common during peak pollen seasons. They can make everyday activities uncomfortable, especially if you are unsure what is triggering them or how to find relief.

What are seasonal allergies?

Seasonal allergies occur when the immune system reacts to airborne allergens such as pollen from trees, grasses and weeds. When these allergens enter or come into contact with the body, the immune system releases chemicals like histamines that trigger inflammation and allergy symptoms. 

Seasonal allergy symptoms often appear during spring, summer or fall when pollen levels are high. For many people, symptoms continue for several weeks while allergens remain in the environment.

What are common seasonal allergy symptoms?

Seasonal allergies can affect the nose, sinuses, throat and eyes. Symptoms may appear during high pollen seasons or when exposed to common allergens like dust, mold or pet dander.

Common allergy symptoms include:

  • Sneezing 
  • Runny or stuffy nose 
  • Sinus pressure related to nasal congestion 
  • Itchy, watery or red eyes 
  • Postnasal drip 
  • Scratchy throat or cough 
  • Headaches 
  • Fatigue caused by ongoing allergy symptoms

Understand your symptoms

Allergy symptoms can sometimes feel similar to a cold or sinus infection. Understanding the differences can help you decide when to seek medical care.

Allergies

  • Triggered by pollen, dust, mold or pet dander 
  • Sneezing, itchy eyes and runny nose 
  • Symptoms may last for weeks while exposure continues 
  • Usually no fever

Cold

  • Caused by a virus
  • Sore throat, cough, congestion, mild fatigue
  • Typically resolves within 7 to 10 days

Sinus infection

  • Often follows a cold or prolonged nasal congestion
  • Facial pressure, jaw pain, headache, nasal discharge
  • Symptoms may last longer than 10 days or worsen over time

When should I see a doctor for allergy symptoms?

Many seasonal allergies can be managed with over-the-counter treatments. However, you may want to speak with a healthcare provider if:

  • Symptoms last longer than two weeks

  • Nasal congestion causes severe sinus pressure

  • Allergy symptoms interfere with sleep or daily activities

  • Over-the-counter medications do not provide relief

  • You are unsure whether symptoms are allergies, a cold or a sinus infection

Allergy treatment options

Treatment for seasonal allergies depends on your symptoms, overall health, and the types of allergens you may be exposed to. Identifying patterns, such as when symptoms occur and what may be triggering them, can help guide the right approach.

Treatment may include:

  • Over-the-counter allergy medications such as antihistamines

  • Prescription allergy medications when appropriate

  • Nasal sprays to reduce inflammation

  • Strategies to reduce exposure to common allergens

  • Guidance for managing seasonal allergy symptoms

With the right combination of treatments and preventive steps, many people can effectively manage seasonal allergy symptoms and stay more comfortable during high-pollen times.

Get allergy care on your schedule with Teladoc Health

Allergy symptoms can appear quickly and sometimes last longer than expected. Whether symptoms are mild or disrupting your day, Teladoc Health makes it easy to connect with a licensed provider through a virtual visit—no waiting rooms or appointments required.

During a visit, a provider can evaluate your symptoms, discuss possible allergy triggers and recommend treatment options, including over-the-counter or prescription medications when appropriate.

With Teladoc Health, you can:

  • Connect with a licensed medical professional 24/7

  • Get care nights, weekends and holidays

  • Receive treatment recommendations and prescriptions when appropriate 

  • Access care from home or work, or while traveling

Explore expert allergy tips and prevention strategies

Allergies FAQ

Expert tips for managing allergy symptoms

Want more ways to manage seasonal allergy symptoms and prepare for allergy season? Explore expert reviewed guidance from the Teladoc Health Library.

  • Tips for taming spring allergies 

  • How to prepare for allergy season 

  • Tips for chronic allergy sufferers

  • Sinus pressure (when you should worry) 

Don’t let allergies slow you down

Allergy symptoms can appear suddenly and disrupt your day. With Teladoc Health, you can connect with a licensed medical professional anytime and get personalized treatment recommendations through a virtual visit.

Get 24/7 care from licensed medical professionals and receive prescriptions delivered straight to you when appropriate

Schedule a visit
Register for 24/7 allergy care

  • American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. Seasonal Allergies (Allergic Rhinitis). Accessed June 12, 2026. 
    American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. Hay Fever (Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis). Accessed June 12, 2026. 
    Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Allergies. Accessed June 12, 2026. 
    National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. Allergic Diseases. Accessed June 12, 2026. 
    Wallace DV, Dykewicz MS, Oppenheimer J, et al. Pharmacologic Treatment of Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis: Synopsis of Guidance From the 2017 Joint Task Force on Practice Parameters. Ann Intern Med. Accessed June 12, 2026.

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