Seasonal Summertime Allergy Symptoms

For some, summertime brings great memories of swimming at the beach or pool, grilling out with friends, or perhaps going on a fun camping trip. But for those of us that suffer from summertime allergies, our thoughts turn to constant sneezing, runny noses, and scratchy throats. The good news is, if you’re an allergy sufferer, there are many great products on the market so you can get back to enjoying the long summer days, sneeze-free!

Summertime Allergy Symptoms

With all the trees blooming and weeds growing you may be able to identify with a few of the following allergy symptoms:

• Itchy, red, or watery eyes
• Scratchy throat
• Sneezing (indoors and out)
• Drippy, runny nose

You may need to check with your doctor to make sure that these symptoms are indeed allergy-related and not a cold or flu virus before taking any medication. 

Some of the common causes of these allergies are grasses and weeds.  I personally love the smell of fresh-cut grass, but it can also bring my eyes to water and my nose to run. 

The most common culprit to our pain and suffering is the infamous Ragweed! Gotta love how persistent weeds can be. There are 17 species of ragweed, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology.  This weed grows everywhere across the USA producing pollen flying through the air causing allergic reactions such as sneezing and watery eyes.

So what can help? Modern-day medicine and over the counter remedies are helping many of us allergy sufferers be able to enjoy the great outdoors,  minimizing the side effects that allergies cause.

• Antihistaminsuch – such as Claritin (loratadine),   Zyrtec (cetirizine), and Xyzal (levocetirizine)

Histamines are what is released into the body causing an allergic reaction. This is why taking an antihistamine can provide relief. The above-mentioned medications can be found by clicking on the highlighted link.  

These are often taken orally, and some can make you drowsy, like Benadryl, so be sure to read the instructions before taking the medication. 

Eye Drops- such as Zaditor (ketotifen) and Pataday (olopatadine)

Eyedrops are a helpful way to treat itchy, watery, and red eyes due to allergies. The above-mentioned medications can be found by clicking on the highlighted link.  

Nasal Sprays- such as Flonase (fluticasone propionate), and Sinex

Nasal sprays can help relieve that dreaded nasal congestion that often accompanies allergies. These sprays can work very well to reduce congestion, sneezing, and inflammation of the nasal passages. They can bring relief to the irritating “drippy nose.” They're a great help and often recommended for allergies. The above-mentioned medications can be found by clicking on the highlighted link.  

A few tips that can help you “weather” summer allergies 

• Consider investing in an air purifier.
• Keep your home clean, including regular vacuuming and dusting.
• Be aware of the air quality reports and try to work your outdoor schedule around days when the mold and pollen counts are low.
• Keep your windows clean and closed during those days where the pollen count is high. Running the air conditioner will help.
• Wash your bedding frequently to remove dust particles and pollen

With a little effort and some help, summer/seasonal allergies don’t have to keep you from living your life to the fullest.