The Call-On-Doc Guide to Seasonal Allergies

Seasonal allergies—also known as allergic rhinitis or hay fever—occur when the immune system overreacts to allergens in the air. These allergens are most commonly pollen, mold spores, and outdoor environmental particles that appear during specific times of the year.

When exposed, the immune system releases histamine, which causes symptoms such as:

• Runny or stuffy nose

• Sneezing

• Itchy or watery eyes

• Sinus pressure

• Postnasal drip

• Cough

According to current public health data, over 60 million Americans experience seasonal allergy symptoms each year.

Seasonal allergies are triggered by airborne allergens that vary by climate, geography, and time of year. The most common causes include:

Pollen

The leading cause of seasonal allergies in the United States. Trees, grasses, and weeds release pollen as part of their reproductive cycle, which can travel long distances through the air.

Mold Spores

Outdoor mold thrives in damp, humid environments and is especially common during spring and fall, after rain or during leaf decay.

Insects

While less common, seasonal insect bites or stings—including reactions to mites, ticks, and chiggers—can trigger allergic responses in some individuals.

Seasonal allergy patterns vary widely depending on where you live, weather conditions, and local vegetation.

Alergias de primavera (finales de febrero a mayo)

• Principalmente causadas por polen de árboles (roble, abedul, arce, olmo)

• El polen de pasto aumenta hacia finales de la primavera

Alergias de verano (junio a agosto)

• Dominadas por polen de pasto

• Pueden empeorar los síntomas del asma debido al calor y la calidad del aire

Alergias de otoño (septiembre a noviembre)

• Generalmente causadas por ambrosía

• Aumentan las esporas de moho debido a hojas húmedas y suelo mojado

Alergias de invierno

• Menos comunes, pero posibles en algunas regiones (por ejemplo, polen de cedro en el sur)

• Los alérgenos interiores pueden predominar

Seasonal allergy symptoms can last weeks to months, depending on:

• The allergen involved

• Individual immune response

• Environmental exposure

Although symptoms may improve temporarily, seasonal allergies tend to recur every year during the same seasons. Some individuals experience symptoms year-round due to overlapping indoor allergies.

Typical symptoms include:

• Sneezing

• Nasal congestion or runny nose

• Itchy, watery eyes

• Postnasal drip

• Cough

Additional symptoms may include:

• Fatigue

• Irritability

• Brain fog

• Reduced sense of smell or taste

Fatigue and irritability often result from poor sleep quality due to congestion rather than the allergy itself.

Severe reactions are uncommon but can include:

• Difficulty breathing

• Wheezing

• Chest tightness

• Rapid or weak pulse

Seek immediate medical attention if severe symptoms occur.

Allergies and infections can overlap, but there are key differences.

More likely allergies:

• No fever

• No body aches

• Symptoms focused on nose, eyes, and sinuses

More likely illness:

• Fever

• Body aches

• Severe sore throat

• Symptoms spreading beyond the head and face

You can have allergies and an illness at the same time, but allergies alone do not cause fever or muscle aches.

Most people do not require formal testing. When needed, diagnosis may include:

• Blood tests

• Skin allergy testing

Advanced testing is typically reserved for persistent or severe cases.

Common treatment options include:

• Oral antihistamines

• Nasal corticosteroid sprays

• Decongestants (short-term use)

• Prescription allergy medications

Supportive measures may include:

• Saline nasal rinses

• Avoiding outdoor exposure during high pollen counts

• Showering after outdoor activities

There is currently no cure for seasonal allergies, but modern treatments are highly effective at controlling symptoms.