Allergy Season Survival Guide
Seasonal allergies appear worse this year. Environmental shifts have caused pollen counts to peak earlier and remain elevated for longer durations, and many of us are feeling it!
Longer seasons, higher pollen counts, more persistent symptoms. Congestion, sinus pressure, fatigue, brain fog—it adds up quickly.
The good news: you don’t have to just push through it. There are a few simple, effective strategies that make a big difference.
Environmental Discipline & Timing
Control your environment (this matters more than people think)
Keep windows closed during high pollen times and use air conditioning to filter outdoor air
Use a HEPA air purifier, especially in your bedroom
Vacuum regularly and wash sheets in hot water weekly (reduces indoor allergens that compound seasonal symptoms)
Shower and change clothes after being outside to remove pollen
Don't hang laundry outside (pollen sticks to it)
Monitor local pollen counts at sites like pollen.com to plan your day
There's no way to eliminate all allergens — but reducing exposure adds up.
Timing matters
Pollen counts tend to peak from mid-morning through afternoon — try to limit outdoor exposure during these hours
Dry, windy days = worse symptoms
After rain = usually better, but thunderstorms can worsen symptoms
If pollen counts are high, start medications before symptoms ramp up
Over the Counter Medications
| Option | How It Helps | Side Effects / Warnings |
|---|---|---|
| Artificial TearsTopical drops | Mechanically flushes allergens from the eyes throughout the day. | Extremely safe for frequent use. Does not treat the underlying itch. |
| Antihistamine Eye Drops(e.g., Ketotifen / Zaditor) | Specifically targets and treats ocular itching. | Do not use "redness relief" drops (naphazoline), which cause rebound redness. |
| Saline with Xylitol(e.g., Xlear nasal spray) | May help with congestion relief by moisturizing the nasal cavity. | Limited evidence in allergic rhinitis specifically (primary evidence is in sinusitis but I love it). |
| Saline Nasal Irrigation(e.g., Neti pot, Squeeze bottle) | Flushes allergens, mucus, and inflammatory mediators from the nasal passages. | Must use distilled, boiled, or sterile water—never tap water (risk of serious infection). |
| Non-Drowsy Antihistamines(Allegra, Claritin, Zyrtec) | Reduces sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. Best for mild daily use. | Generally well-tolerated. Zyrtec may cause some drowsiness in some patients. |
| Flonase (Fluticasone)Nasal steroid spray | Intranasal steroids are the most effective for sneezing, congestion, and postnasal drip. | Takes a few days to reach full effect. Aim away from the septum to prevent nosebleeds. |
| Azelastine (Astepro)Antihistamine nasal spray | Fast-acting relief for sneezing, runny nose, and itching. | May cause a bitter taste. Works well combined with Flonase for stronger relief. |
| Sudafed (Pseudoephedrine)Behind-the-counter | Potent decongestant for nasal/ear fullness. Requires pharmacist signature. | Risk of elevated BP and insomnia. Should not be used with hypertension or heart disease. |
Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine and Treatment (OMT)
Pharmacological intervention may be less effective when the mechanical drainage pathways of the head and neck are restricted. As an Osteopathic physician (DO), I address these structural barriers:
Sinus Drainage: Rhythmic pressure on the facial bones may help open drainage pathways.
Lymphatic Pump: Techniques that promote lymphatic circulation, which may help reduce congestion and support immune function.
Suboccipital Release: Releasing tension at the base of the skull to improve cranial venous drainage and relieve pressure-based headaches.
Demonstration: I have provided a video on my website, Instagram, and TikTok demonstrating these techniques you can try at home.
👉Watch the Sinus & Ear Drainage Tips Video
When to reach out
Please call or message the office if you develop:
Symptoms lasting more than 10 days without improvement, or worsening after initially getting better
Significant facial, ear, or neck pain
Difficulty swallowing from throat pain
High fever ≥ 102°F, or persistent fever ≥ 100.4°F lasting more than 3 days
👉Self-Schedule Your Visit
Call 911 for:
Chest pain, shortness of breath, or wheezing
Coughing up blood
Severe pain with swallowing + muffled voice
Swelling around the eyes or changes in vision
Curious about Direct Primary Care?
If you’ve been thinking about joining the practice,or want to learn more about how DPC works, I’m always happy to connect.