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Phew, we made it. Springtime is in the air. Well, for some of us anyway (my apologies to those still experiencing winter!) Here in Los Angeles, the cherry blossoms and magnolias are beginning to bloom already. Sneeze. Runny nose. Sneeze. Yes, with all these beautiful blooms come seasonal allergies.

Just about everyone is familiar with the symptoms of seasonal allergies (also known as hay fever) – the itching, sneezing and runny nose caused by whatever pollen is currently floating in the air. What most people don’t know is that hay fever is one manifestation of a more basic condition known as allergic rhinitis.

This condition affects approximately 10% of the U.S. population (roughly 30 million people) and is the most common allergic disorder in the country. No one knows why some people suffer from allergies and others do not. Some evidence suggests that allergies could be a hereditary trait. Other evidence links allergic rhinitis to asthma and eczema. People who suffer from these diseases are more likely to develop allergic rhinitis, too.

Seasonal rhinitis comes and goes with the reproductive cycles of plants and fungi. At certain times of the year specific to their species and geographic region, plants release pollen into the air, and fungi release spores. Those people who are allergic to one or more kinds of these allergens will develop allergic rhinitis.

No matter where or how your symptoms originate, there are steps you can take to ensure you continue to feel well everyday. To target multiple symptoms, consider over-the-counter, all-purpose antihistamine medications like loratadine or cetirizine. If nasal congestion is one of your symptoms and you do not have high blood pressure, purchase an antihistamine with a decongestant (like pseudoephedrine or phenylpropanolamine). If those aren’t strong enough to relieve your symptoms, talk to your doctor about prescription options.

If you prefer just to target a specific symptom (like itchy eyes or a runny nose), talk to your doctor about prescription nasal sprays or eye drops. Don't want traditional medications? Not a problem! Saline nasal sprays and neti pots can work wonders for congestion and dry mucus membranes. Lubricating eye drops can help dry, itchy eyes. And don't forget behavioral changes too! If you’re highly sensitive to flowers, keep artificial flowers inside your home instead of real ones. Turn on the air conditioning instead of opening the windows on days where the pollen count is high.

Try not to let your allergic rhinitis symptoms derail you. Know what environmental triggers increase your symptoms, and take precautions before going outdoors. If you do spend time outdoors, be sure to wash your hands when you come inside to get the pollen and other potential allergens off your skin.
 

Dr. Elizabeth Ricanati is the mother of three children and founding medical director of The Cleveland Clinic's LifeStyle 180 program.  She is a regular columnist for ShareWIK.com  

More Dr. Elizabeth Ricanati articles, click here. 

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