Seasonal Allergies Specialist

What are seasonal allergies?

Seasonal allergies, also called seasonal allergic rhinitis, occur at specific times of the year, when trees, weeds, and grasses release large quantities of pollen. You experience symptoms only when the pollen you’re allergic to is in the air.

Tree pollen generally causes spring allergies, while grass pollen appears in late spring and summer. Ragweed and other types of weeds take over in late summer and fall.

Molds that release airborne spores from mid-summer to early fall can also cause seasonal allergies. However, many molds grow year-round.

What symptoms develop due to seasonal allergies?

Seasonal allergies cause symptoms such as:

• Congested nose
• Runny nose
• Sneezing
• Red, watery eyes
• Fatigue
• Postnasal drip
• Itchy nose, eyes, and mouth

You may also experience swelling or blue-colored skin under your eyes, a condition often called an allergic shiner.

How are seasonal allergies diagnosed?

Your symptoms may strongly suggest a seasonal allergy. However, a skin prick test can verify the diagnosis and identify the specific type of pollen that triggers your allergy.

During a skin prick test, your provider places a small drop of your suspected allergens on your skin. Then they gently scratch the area under the allergens. It only takes about 15 minutes to develop a skin reaction if you’re allergic to any of the allergens.

How are seasonal allergies treated?

If you have mild allergies, limiting your exposure to your allergen and taking over-the-counter medications may be all you need to relieve your symptoms. More severe symptoms may need a prescription medication.

When medications don’t help or you have severe symptoms, your provider may recommend immunotherapy. Immunotherapy desensitizes your immune system, so it stops reacting to your allergens and your symptoms improve.

There are two types of immunotherapy:

Allergy shots

Your provider gives you regular shots containing a dose of your allergen. Most people get shots 1-2 times weekly for several months, followed by 1-2 shots a month for several years. As your immune system is consistently exposed to the allergen, you stop having allergic reactions.

Sublingual immunotherapy

This treatment also involves doses of your specific allergen. But instead of a shot, you place a dissolvable tablet under your tongue. You get your first dose at Allergy and Asthma Treatment Center, so your provider can monitor for side effects. Then you take daily doses at home.

You don’t need to struggle with seasonal allergies when help is available at Allergy and Asthma Treatment Center. Call or book an appointment online today.