The onset of spring often brings a sense of renewal and joy, but for many, it also signals the return of seasonal allergies. If youve noticed that your allergies seem to worsen each year, you are not alone. According to a recent review of research published in The Laryngoscope, climate change is extending pollen seasons and is resulting in an increasing number of people seeking medical relief.

The findings from one study highlighted in the review indicate that the pollen season in North America has lengthened by about 20 days between 1990 and 2018. Furthermore, multiple studies have observed a significant rise in average daily pollen concentrations. This situation translates to more sneezes, stuffy noses, and itchy eyes for allergy sufferers.

Fortunately, there are effective strategies available to help manage these allergies and mitigate their impact on daily life. To provide insights, NPR consulted with medical experts who specialize in allergies. Here are some key recommendations for managing springtime allergies effectively.

1. Keep Pollen Outside

Pollen can easily be transported indoors on various surfaces, warns Dr. Zachary Rubin, a pediatric allergist and clinical immunologist known for sharing allergy tips online. One of the simplest yet most effective measures is to remove your shoes as soon as you enter your home. However, theres more to consider.

Dr. Rubin suggests changing out of any outdoor clothing before sitting down on furniture or getting into bed. This includes taking off socks, pants, and shirts, which should be sent directly to the laundry. He recommends taking a shower or bath in the evening to wash off any pollen that has settled on your skin and hair throughout the day.

When indoors, its advisable to keep windows and doors closed as much as possible. This may be disappointing for those who enjoy the fresh air of spring, but open windows can invite in pollen and mold, especially on dry and windy days. Interestingly, rainy days can offer relief since rain helps clear pollen from the air, although those with mold allergies should still keep windows closed during wet weather. If you must open windows, consider using an indoor air purifier to help filter out allergens.

2. Clean Your Pets

If you own pets that spend time outside, it's essential to wipe them down when they come indoors to avoid bringing pollen inside. Dr. Neelima Tummala, an ENT physician and clinical assistant professor at the New York University Grossman School of Medicine, emphasizes that using allergy-friendly wipes available at pet stores can make a difference. Regular baths for pets can further reduce the pollen they carry into the home.

3. Maintain Nasal Hygiene

To minimize exposure to allergens, try to avoid being outdoors during peak pollen times. Dr. Tummala points out that tree pollen is particularly high in the mornings during spring. If you want to enjoy the outdoors while reducing symptoms, wearing masks, a habit many adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic, can be effective against pollen and mold.

Another helpful practice is rinsing your nasal passages with a neti pot or saline spray upon returning home. Its critical to use distilled water or boiled and cooled tap water to prevent infection risks from potentially harmful microorganisms found in untreated water.

4. Understand Your Medications

Various allergy medications target different symptoms, and knowing which ones to use is crucial. For symptoms like itchy eyes, a runny nose, or sneezing, oral antihistamines such as Zyrtec, Claritin, or Allegra can provide relief. Dr. Rubin often suggests pairing these with a nasal spray like Astepro that contains antihistamine properties.

For congestion or postnasal drip, steroid nasal sprays such as Flonase, Nasacort, or Nasonex are effective. However, Dr. Rubin cautions against using these sprays year-round and advises consulting with a physician about the appropriate duration of use. These sprays typically require several weeks to show their full effects, so starting them earlier in the pollen season is recommended.

If you are in desperate need of relief from severe nasal congestion, over-the-counter decongestant sprays like Afrin can be a quick fix. However, its important not to use these for more than three to five consecutive days to avoid developing rebound congestion.

5. Mastering the Use of Nasal Sprays

Many people inadvertently misuse nasal sprays, reducing their effectiveness. According to Dr. Rubin, a common mistake is simply snorting the spray after application, which can result in wasted medication. He advises a technique he refers to as "nose to toes." This involves looking down while placing the nozzle at a slight angle toward the ear on the same side as the nostril being treated. After spraying, breathe normally through your mouth without snorting. This method helps to target the nasal passages effectively and reduces the likelihood of developing a sinus infection.

6. Be Mindful of Allergy Triggers

Understanding the concept of the allergy symptom threshold is vital; this concept means that while a single pollen grain may not trigger a reaction, a large accumulation can lead to symptoms. Dr. Rubin explains that exposure to various allergens can compound effects, similar to filling a cup with watereventually, it overflows.

Furthermore, other factors can exacerbate allergic reactions. For example, consuming alcohol may lower the threshold for some individuals, making them more susceptible to reactions. Exercise, particularly outdoors, can also increase vulnerability. When sick, the immune system's heightened state can exacerbate allergic responses, and conversely, allergy-induced mucus buildup can hinder the bodys ability to combat respiratory infections.

Ultimately, Dr. Rubin emphasizes that reducing exposure to allergens as much as possible is essential for successful management. The more you mitigate exposure to irritants, the better you can prevent allergic reactions.

This information was reported with contributions from NPR's Maria Godoy, enabling you to tackle your allergies this spring with confidence.