Spring Allergy Specialist Q&A

The most common allergy in spring is hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis. Hay fever is a condition that causes itchy, watery eyes and nasal congestion. It is most often caused by airborne allergens, such as pollen, dust mites, animal dander, and mold.

The most common cause of seasonal spring allergies is pollen, which typically comes from trees, such as:

• Alder
• Ash
• Aspen
• Beech
• Birch
• Boxelder
• Cedar
• Cottonwood
• Cypress
• Elm
• Hazel
• Hickory
• Horse chestnut
• Juniper
• Maple
• Mulberry
• Oak
• Olive
• Palm
• Pine
• Poplar
• Sycamore
• Willow

Spring allergies may also be caused by flower pollen, grass pollen, weed pollen, or ragweed pollen, as all of these are airborne and can easily be inhaled when outside.
 

The time that spring allergies begin is different based on region and climate. In most parts of the United States, spring allergy season begins when tree pollen levels become elevated. Across the more temperate climates, such as the South, this starts in early March; in colder parts of the country, this typically occurs in mid to late April. However, the second half of spring allergy season is primarily dominated by grass pollen; this typically starts in May but can vary depending on the region and the unique weather patterns of the year. As a general rule, spring allergy season starts when the trees start budding and the grass starts to turn green.

Spring allergies can make a person feel under the weather, emulating symptoms of an illness such as sneezing, coughing, and headaches. While each person responds differently to spring allergies and can therefore experience different symptoms, spring allergies are typically characterized by the following:

• Sneezing — One of the most common signs of spring allergies is sneezing, as allergens are inhaled and can irritate the nasal cavity.
• Coughing — A cough commonly accompanies spring allergies due to the irritation caused by the allergens in the throat.
• Sore Throat — In addition to coughing, a sore throat can occur from the irritating allergens; it can also be caused by coughing.
• Watery, Itchy Eyes — As allergens enter the eyes, they can cause them to water and become itchy.
• Puffy Eyes — The eyes can also exhibit puffiness from the constant irritation, making a person look tired.
• Headache — Headaches are a common symptom of many conditions, including spring allergies.
• Dry, Itchy Skin — Spring allergies can also affect the skin, causing it to dry out; this often results in itchy skin.
• Clogged and Itchy Ears — The nose is not the only area susceptible to congestion and itchiness; the ears can also suffer from these symptoms, affecting a person’s hearing and causing a great deal of discomfort.
 
If you or someone you love is dealing with spring allergies, the professionals at Primary Care Center can help you find relief. Our team of allergy doctors is experienced in diagnosing and treating spring allergies, so you can enjoy the outdoors without worry! Contact us today, book an appointment with our spring allergy doctors, or visit our clinic. We have convenient locations to serve you in Webster and Pasadena, TX. We serve patients from Webster TX, Pasadena TX, South Houston TX, Brookwood TX, Seabrook TX, Bacliff TX, and surrounding areas.