Get a head start on managing allergies now to enjoy a more symptom-free season.

As spring begins, trees start budding, days get brighter and people get excited about spending more time outside. But for many, those first warm days also bring sneezing fits, itchy eyes and nonstop congestion. That's because spring allergies are already starting to tick up around the country and symptoms often build fast as pollen levels rise.

Spring allergies are a result of your immune system overreacting to pollen from trees, grasses and weeds. In response, your body releases chemicals that cause inflammation, leading to sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes and fatigue. Even mild symptoms can grow more uncomfortable if they're ignored early on. But by starting prevention steps early, you can help keep symptoms from taking over your spring.

Getting ahead of allergy season makes it easier to manage. These tips can help lessen symptoms before they become more intense:

• Start allergy medications early. For people with chronic or severe seasonal allergies, waiting until symptoms are in full swing can make them harder to control. Starting over-the-counter or prescription allergy medications a few weeks before pollen counts peak helps calm inflammation early and may prevent symptoms from becoming severe. Many nasal sprays and allergy medicines work best when used consistently ahead of time.
• Use over-the-counter allergy treatments correctly. Antihistamines help with sneezing and itching. Nasal steroid sprays reduce swelling but often take several days to work fully. Saline sprays or rinses help wash pollen out of nasal passages.
• Get enough sleep. Rest supports your immune system and helps your body respond better to allergens.
• Stay well hydrated. Drinking enough fluids helps thin mucus and ease congestion. It also keeps your immune system going strong.
• Keep asthma well controlled. Spring allergies can worsen asthma symptoms, so staying on top of asthma management is especially important at this time of year.

Reducing exposure to allergens is also one of the best ways to manage spring allergy season with less misery. Here are some tips that can help:

• Limit pollen exposure when possible. Many weather apps provide pollen counts. On high pollen days, consider limiting outdoor time. Try to plan outdoor activities when pollen counts are typically lower, which is later in the day and when winds are calm.
• Keep windows closed at home and in the car. Open windows allow pollen to drift inside. Using air conditioning with a clean filter helps improve indoor air quality.
• Wear sunglasses outdoors. Sunglasses help block pollen from getting into your eyes and can reduce irritation.
• Shower and change clothes after being outdoors. Pollen sticks to hair, skin and clothing. Rinsing off helps keep pollen from spreading around your home or onto bedding.
• Wash bedding regularly. Sheets and pillowcases can trap pollen. Washing them often in hot water can reduce nighttime symptoms.

If allergy symptoms are severe, long-lasting or interfere with daily life, a healthcare provider can help. Prescription medications, allergy testing or long-term treatments may reduce symptoms over time.

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Date Last Reviewed: January 16, 2026

Editorial Review: Andrea Cohen, Editorial Director, Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Contact Editor

Medical Review: Perry Pitkow, MD

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