Every spring, thousands of people face unpleasant symptoms associated with the blooming of trees and plants. Spring bloom allergy, or hay fever, is a common seasonal condition that causes sneezing, itchy eyes, nasal congestion, and even rashes. While spring is a time of nature’s revival, it often becomes a real challenge for allergy sufferers. Baltimore Chronicle will help you understand the causes, symptoms, treatment options, and prevention of spring bloom allergy.
What Is Spring Bloom Allergy and Why It Occurs
Spring bloom allergy is the immune system’s overreaction to pollen from plants that enters the body through the respiratory tract. This condition is most common in spring, during the blooming of trees such as birch, alder, poplar, hazel, and later—grasses and weeds.
Main causes of allergy:
- Genetic predisposition
- Polluted air that enhances allergen effects
- Weakened immune system
- Prolonged outdoor exposure during peak blooming
- Frequent colds and chronic ENT conditions
Pollen is so tiny that it easily enters the respiratory system, triggering an inflammatory response. The immune system mistakenly treats the pollen as a threat and begins an aggressive reaction, releasing histamine, which causes allergy symptoms.
Symptoms of Spring Allergy: How to Recognize Hay Fever
Hay fever is often mistaken for a cold, so it’s important to distinguish between the two.
Main allergy symptoms:
- Sneezing, often in rapid succession
- Nasal congestion or a runny nose
- Redness and itching in the eyes
- Watery eyes
- Dry cough
- Itching in the nose, throat, or ears
- Fatigue, headache
In some cases, skin reactions such as rashes or dermatitis may also occur. Symptoms usually worsen in the morning and on dry windy days when pollen spreads more actively in the air.
How Pollen Allergy Is Diagnosed
For an accurate diagnosis, you need to consult an allergist who can conduct several tests.
Common diagnostic methods:
- Skin prick tests with allergens
- Blood tests for specific immunoglobulin E
- Provocation tests
- Keeping a symptom diary during blooming season
The earlier the allergen is identified, the more effective treatment and prevention will be.
Ways to Treat Spring Allergy
There are both medicinal and non-medicinal treatments that can significantly reduce or eliminate symptoms.
Most common treatment methods:
- Antihistamines (cetirizine, loratadine, desloratadine)
- Nasal decongestant drops
- Corticosteroids (sprays)
- Immunotherapy (AIT) — gradually training the body to tolerate allergens
Doctors may also recommend using air filters or masks, especially on dry, windy days.
Preventing Bloom Allergy
It’s much easier to prevent allergy symptoms than to treat them in the middle of the season. Here are several effective tips:
- Avoid outdoor activities during high pollen times (morning, windy days)
- Install air filters at home and ventilate rooms regularly
- Take a shower and change clothes after being outdoors
- Use sunglasses to protect your eyes
- Humidify indoor air
Comparison table: cold vs. allergy
| Symptom | Bloom Allergy | Cold |
|---|---|---|
| Onset | Sudden | Gradual |
| Fever | Usually absent | Often present |
| Itching | Common | Rare |
| Watery eyes | Yes | No |
| Duration | Up to 2–3 months | 5–10 days |
Spring Allergy in Children
Children are especially sensitive to allergens. In kids, allergies may appear more severe, sometimes accompanied by a slight fever and general malaise.
How to help a child:
- Consult a pediatric allergist
- Use hypoallergenic cleaning products
- Clean frequently with a wet cloth
- Keep a food and health diary
Natural Remedies for Allergy
While medications are the most effective, certain natural remedies can supplement the therapy:
- Honey (if no allergy to bee products)
- Herbal teas from nettle or chamomile
- Inhalation with essential oils (mint, eucalyptus)
- Foods rich in vitamin C
Always consult a doctor before using any natural remedy.
Earlier we wrote about how to understand that you have an allergy.