AARP Hearing Center
Why Are My Seasonal Allergies Getting Worse?
A doctor’s advice on the best way to handle the sniffling, sneezing and itchy eyes that start when everything blooms in spring
James Yates
I have seasonal allergies, and it feels like they’re getting worse every year. How can I get the symptoms under control so that I’m not miserable every time I have to leave the house?
While we love the lush growth triggered by spring, if you have seasonal allergies, enjoying yourself outdoors on high-pollen days can be difficult. You may be sneezing and sniffling, have itchy eyes, a runny nose, post-nasal drip, a sore throat or cough, stuffiness and fatigue. While it’s unpleasant, you’re certainly not alone in your misery. The National Center for Health Statistics estimates nearly 30 percent of Americans between age 45 to 64, and more than 26 percent of Americans between ages 65 to 74, have seasonal allergies. So, what’s going on?
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Your immune system is mistaking pollen, those tiny particles released from trees, weeds and grasses, for a dangerous substance. In response, your body produces antibodies that detect the allergen, causing an inflammatory reaction and the release of a compound called histamine.
This reaction can worsen as you age, because, like the rest of your body, as we get older, our immune system changes. In this instance, it means an increased sensitivity to allergens. You may also be experiencing a decline in lung function, making it harder to clear allergens from your airways. Or, you may be dealing with asthma or emphysema, which can increase allergic reactions, particularly in older people. I also think it’s worth mentioning that as the environment changes and our planet warms, our growing seasons are longer. Because of this, more people are experiencing seasonal allergies.
The good news is that there are actions you can take to help relieve your discomfort. First, I’d say don’t underestimate the value of meeting with an allergy specialist, or allergist. These are doctors specifically trained to diagnose allergies, asthma and other immune-system-related issues.
An allergist can pinpoint exactly what’s causing your immune system to overreact, often by giving you a skin prick test or allergy blood test. They can then offer treatments tailored to your particular needs. In some cases, allergy shots, also known as immunotherapy, can help to gradually reduce your sensitivity. These shots contain tiny amounts of allergens that work to trigger your immune system. Over time, your immune system gets used to the allergens and stops overreacting.
When I suggest seeing a specialist to my patients, I sometimes hear, “Oh, I’ll just buy an over-the-counter medication.” I’m not against these medications, but I think it’s important to understand why you’re taking them and to be certain you’re taking them for the right reasons and understand that they can have side effects, depending on the ingredients.
During peak season, before going outside, I suggest you check the pollen levels in your area on free weather apps, your TV or radio, in the local newspaper, or on Pollen.com. Pollen counts of 15 or less are considered low, while levels above 90 are high. Very high pollen counts exceed 1,500 and are considered a severe risk. If this is the case, you want to stay indoors, particularly if it’s windy or during mid-afternoon hours, when counts are usually at their highest.
If you’re sensitive to pollen, it’s a good idea to keep your windows closed, and if you use an air conditioner, to clean the filters often. When you’re outside, wear a hat and sunglasses to prevent pollen from getting into your eyes. Change your clothes once you’re back in the house and shower right away to remove pollen from your hair and skin. Of course, when pollen levels are high, don’t mow the lawn or work in your garden.
Rinsing your nasal passages with a simple saline solution can usually temporarily relieve symptoms. Depending on your needs, specific medications, such as eye drops, nasal sprays, and oral medications, are available for various locations affected. An allergist or your general doctor can suggest specific treatments, including over-the-counter and prescription medications.
As the late comedian Robin Williams once said, “Spring is nature’s way of saying, ‘Let’s party!’” Take care of your allergies sooner rather than later in the season. You don’t want to miss out on the fun.
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