When is pollen season over? How to battle allergies with home remedies and other medicine

The flowers are blooming, and many are sneezing in response to the additional pollen floating through the air.

Spring is one of the most beautiful times of the year, but for those with seasonal allergies, the warmer weather brings discomfort. Some may believe that their allergy symptoms are actually the result of a bacterial infection. The CDC has warned that antibiotics will not cure these symptoms, and taking them can contribute to the misuse of these important drugs. While symptoms may overlap, speaking to a medical professional before beginning to take any medication increases the likelihood that you get the treatment you need to relieve discomfort.

Pollen Season: when it starts and ends?

There are different kinds of pollen, and sadly those who are allergic to multiple types may suffer for a longer period of time. Tree pollen begins to circulate at higher levels around February in most parts of the United States. However, in colder areas, the effect may take longer to take hold. Symptoms can run through early summer, as in late May and June when flowers come into full bloom.

Methods to combat the effects of allergies

Before taking a trip to the pharmacy, there are two Cleveland Clinic recommended methods to reduce your allergy symptoms. However, for some, their reaction to springtime pollen is so severe that medical care may be needed.

Air filters

Ensuring that the air in your house or workplace is clean can create a sanctionary away from the pollen. For the best results, you will want to purchase “a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, which removes about 99.97% of troublesome airborne particles.” These filters can eliminate pollen, dust, and other allergens that both may or may not be seasonal.

Personal Hygiene

Showering daily or when exposed to pollen in high amounts can limit symptoms. Additionally, washing clothes that you have worn in areas where pollen will be able to stick to the fibers can also help to reduce the amount of pollen on your person that can trigger your allergy symptoms.

Still having issues?

Before trying any medications, you should speak with a medical professional. A doctor may run tests that show that your allergies are so severe that prescription-grade medication may be needed. Additionally, if you have insurance and are prescribed an allergy medication, it can be much cheaper than paying for it over the counter.

The medicines used to reduce allergy symptoms are known as anti-histamines, and there are a few commercial and generic brands that produce these drugs. Zertec and Alegra are some of the name brands that people may be more familiar with. However, generic versions of these medications are typically available at retailers like CVS and Walgreens. Discussing these options with your primary care physician may be helpful in understanding which medication would be best for your unique case.