By Hinsdale Magazine Group Staff

As the flowers bloom and trees bud, the annual struggle with seasonal allergies begins. Pollen fills the air, triggering sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes, and runny noses for millions. While over-the-counter medications provide relief for most, some cases require professional medical attention. Knowing when to visit the drugstore and when to call a doctor can help you manage your symptoms effectively.

Seasonal allergic rhinitis, commonly called hay fever, occurs when the immune system overreacts to allergens like pollen. Symptoms can include sneezing, a runny or stuffy nose, itchy and watery eyes, post-nasal drip, a sore throat, coughing, and fatigue caused by poor sleep from nasal congestion. These symptoms usually start as pollen levels rise in early spring and can last through the summer, depending on the allergens that trigger your reaction.

Over-the-counter medications can offer significant relief for mild to moderate allergy symptoms. Antihistamines help reduce sneezing, itching, and a runny nose. Nasal corticosteroids are effective in reducing inflammation and congestion. Decongestants relieve nasal stuffiness, while eye drops can soothe itchy, watery eyes. For best results, it is essential to start taking allergy medications before symptoms become severe.

While over-the-counter medications help many people, they are not always enough. It is important to call a doctor if symptoms persist despite taking medication. If multiple treatments have been tried with little or no relief, prescription-strength options may be necessary. Severe nasal congestion that does not go away could indicate a sinus infection, which may require medical attention. Allergies can also trigger asthma symptoms, leading to wheezing, shortness of breath, or chest tightness, which should be evaluated by a healthcare provider. Prolonged nasal congestion can sometimes cause blocked Eustachian tubes, resulting in ear pain or infections. Emergency medical care is needed if symptoms extend beyond hay fever and include hives, swelling, or signs of anaphylaxis, such as difficulty breathing or throat swelling.

In addition to medication, lifestyle adjustments can help reduce exposure to allergens. Monitoring pollen counts and staying indoors when levels are high can minimize symptoms. Keeping windows closed prevents pollen from entering the home, while changing clothes and showering after being outdoors helps remove allergens from the skin and hair. An air purifier can also filter allergens inside the house, making indoor air cleaner and easier to breathe.

If seasonal allergies begin to impact daily life, consulting a doctor can provide additional solutions, such as immunotherapy in the form of allergy shots or tablets. These treatments help the body build long-term tolerance to allergens. Managing allergies effectively can make spring a season to enjoy rather than endure.