What to Do When Seasonal Allergies Are Really Bad

Seasonal allergies can be frustrating any time of year, but they can feel especially intense in late spring and early summer.

Between grass pollen, changing weather, outdoor events, and more time spent outside, allergy symptoms can start to interfere with your sleep, your focus, and your ability to enjoy the day.

For some people, the usual allergy routine is enough. But if your symptoms are not improving, feel worse than expected, or are making it hard to get through your normal activities, it may be time to take a closer look.

Here’s what to know about seasonal allergies, what you can try at home, and when a virtual visit may help.

Why Allergies Can Feel Worse This Time of Year

Allergy symptoms happen when your body reacts to something in the environment, such as pollen, grass, weeds, dust, or mold.

During late spring and early summer, allergies may feel worse because of:

• Higher grass pollen levels
• More time spent outdoors
• Windy days that move pollen through the air
• Windows being open more often
• Outdoor events, sports, yardwork, and travel
• Weather changes that can irritate your nose and sinuses

If you feel like your allergies suddenly got worse, you are not imagining it. This time of year can be especially tough for people who are sensitive to pollen and other outdoor allergens.

Common Seasonal Allergy Symptoms

Seasonal allergies can look different from person to person, but common symptoms may include:

• Sneezing
• Runny nose
• Stuffy nose or congestion
• Itchy or watery eyes
• Postnasal drip
• Scratchy throat
• Cough from drainage
• Sinus pressure
• Feeling tired or run down

These symptoms can be annoying on their own, but they can also start to affect daily life. Poor sleep, constant congestion, or ongoing drainage can make it harder to work, exercise, travel, or enjoy time outside.

What You Can Try at Home

If your allergies are flaring, a few simple steps may help reduce exposure and ease symptoms.

You may want to try:

• Keeping windows closed during high-pollen times
• Showering or changing clothes after spending time outside
• Washing your face or rinsing your eyes after outdoor activities
• Using saline spray or rinses as directed
• Drinking plenty of fluids
• Cleaning frequently used surfaces
• Checking whether over-the-counter allergy medications are appropriate for you
• Using over-the-counter medications only as directed

Small changes can make a difference, especially when symptoms are mild or predictable.

But sometimes, even with good habits, allergies still feel hard to manage.

When Your Usual Allergy Routine Is Not Enough

It may be worth checking in if your allergy symptoms are not improving or are starting to interfere with your day.

Consider reaching out if:

• Your usual allergy medication is not helping
• Symptoms are keeping you from sleeping well
• Congestion or drainage is not letting up
• Symptoms are making it hard to work, travel, or enjoy time outside
• You are not sure whether symptoms are allergies or something else
• Symptoms are changing or lasting longer than expected

You do not have to wait until symptoms feel unbearable to ask for guidance. A provider can help you talk through what is happening and what options may make sense.

Could It Be Something Other Than Allergies?

Allergies can overlap with other common concerns, which can make it hard to know what is going on.

For example, congestion, drainage, sinus pressure, cough, and sore throat can sometimes feel similar to a cold or sinus-related issue.

That does not mean something serious is happening, but it does mean you may benefit from talking it through with a provider if symptoms are not improving or feel different than your usual allergies.

A virtual visit can help you review:

• What symptoms you are having
• How long they have been going on
• Whether they are improving, worsening, or staying the same
• What you have already tried
• Whether additional steps may be appropriate

The goal is to help you get clearer direction instead of continuing to guess.

How Oregon Telemed May Be Able to Help

If seasonal allergies are making it hard to sleep, work, or enjoy time outside, Oregon Telemed may be able to help with a virtual visit.

During a visit, a provider can review your symptoms, ask questions, and help you decide what next steps make sense.

Depending on your situation, that may include:

• Guidance on managing symptoms at home
• Reviewing what you have already tried
• Discussing medication options when appropriate
• Considering whether a prescription option may be appropriate
• Helping determine whether symptoms may need a different type of care

Not every allergy concern requires a prescription, and not every concern can be handled virtually. But if your symptoms are not improving, a virtual visit may help you understand your options.

Get Guidance From Home

Seasonal allergies can be more than just annoying. When symptoms are disrupting your sleep, your work, or your ability to enjoy the day, it may be time to check in.

Oregon Telemed may be able to help you review your symptoms, discuss your options, and get guidance on what to do next.

Same-day appointments may be available.

Book online: oregontelemed.com
Call/text: 541-919-8444

If your allergies feel worse than usual, you are not alone.

Late spring and early summer can be a difficult time for seasonal allergy symptoms, especially with more pollen in the air and more time spent outside.

If your usual routine is not helping, you do not have to keep pushing through it. A virtual visit may help you get clearer guidance and discuss options that can help you feel more in control of your symptoms.