Spring allergies can be brutal, and, with pollen and other allergens constantly surrounding us in Central Florida, they can be hard to avoid. Allergies have been proven to negatively impact quality of life and account for preventable school and work sick days. The good news is that there are proven ways to relieve spring allergy symptoms and limit your exposure to common allergens.

Spring Cleaning

Spring cleaning is a common household tradition for a reason. Eliminating common allergens from your home, such as excess pet dander, dust mites and mold, can help if you are allergic to these things. Make sure to vacuum, dust and wash your bedding often (about once a week), not just in the spring, as these allergens are present year-round.

Resist the urge to “air out” your house if you have pollen allergies. You’ll be letting in the pollen, which is counterproductive to your goal of limiting your exposure to allergens.

Over-the-Counter Medications

There are a number of over-the-counter medications that can help relieve allergy symptoms. The three most common are first-generation antihistamines, second-generation antihistamines, and nasal sprays.

First-generation antihistamines, like Benadryl, provide short-term relief (up to six hours) for allergy symptoms such as itchy eyes, hives and runny nose. These are not intended for chronic allergy symptoms, and better, longer-acting alternatives are available. These medications are sedating and can cause severe drowsiness.

Second-generation antihistamines include brand names Allegra, Claritin, Zyrtec and Xyzal. These are all 24-hour, non-sedating medications. These are safe to take daily to relieve allergy symptoms.

Nasal steroid sprays are a first-line treatment for nasal allergy symptoms. These include brand names like Flonase, Fluticasone and Nasacort. After starting this medication, you should start seeing relief within a few days or up to a week. One spray per nostril per day is recommended while your symptoms persist. Read the box carefully to ensure you are buying a nasal steroid and not a decongestant. Daily use of a nasal decongestant can be harmful. If you’re not sure, ask a pharmacist to help you find the correct product.

Many of the medications above are available in generic forms that are as safe and effective as the brand names and more economical. Please see your allergist regarding whether or not you can use the above medications in combination.

Visiting an Allergist

Half of the battle of fighting allergy symptoms is knowing exactly what it is that you are allergic to. Visit an allergist to be tested for common allergens. Armed with this knowledge, your allergist can create an individualized treatment plan to help relieve your symptoms. Common treatments include medications and allergy avoidance tips, and you may be a candidate for allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots).

If your allergies are getting in the way of you enjoying the season, visit an allergist to get tested.

Aishah Ali, MD is a board-certified allergist and immunologist at UCF Health in Lake Nona and helps patients find allergy relief through testing, treatment and education. Learn more at ucfhealth.com.