How to Breathe Easier During Spring Allergy Season

Spring in West Michigan is a welcome change until your nose starts running, your eyes start itching, and you realize allergy season is officially here. Spring allergies affect millions. More than one in four adults in the U.S. have been diagnosed with seasonal allergies, according to the CDC.

As an emergency physician, I often see patients who aren’t sure if their symptoms are caused by spring allergies, something more serious, or somewhere in between. For many of us, spring allergies are unavoidable. But the good news is that most seasonal allergies can be eased by taking a few simple steps.

In this post, I’ll cover simple, effective ways to reduce your symptoms, including:

• Changing your sheets weekly and showering before bed
• Keeping windows closed and using air filters
• Starting with OTC medications, but knowing when to go further
• Trying tools like nasal rinses and sunglasses
• Talking to a provider if symptoms persist—we’re here to help

Know What You're Dealing With

Many of my patients assume that tree pollen is to blame. In spring, tree pollen is the usual suspect. But grass pollen and mold spores can also trigger allergy symptoms. If you’re waking up congested, sneezing more than usual, or dealing with itchy eyes, there’s a good chance allergies are to blame.

It can be tough to know whether your symptoms are allergies or something else, like a cold or sinus infection. One clue is that allergies tend to linger and follow a pattern. Notice if your symptoms worsen after spending time outdoors, especially on windy or high-pollen days. Allergies often cause sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, nasal congestion, and a scratchy throat—but they don’t usually come with a fever, body aches, or thick, discolored mucus like a cold or sinus infection might. If your symptoms return around the same time each year, that’s another strong sign that allergies are to blame.

Allergies occur when your immune system overreacts to normally harmless substances—like pollen or dust. When exposed, your body releases histamines to help defend against what it mistakenly sees as a threat. This response causes inflammation and leads to symptoms like sneezing, congestion, or watery eyes. In West Michigan, common triggers include oak, birch, and maple tree pollen, as well as mold spores that thrive in damp spring conditions.

If you have asthma or other underlying conditions, allergies can make symptoms worse. Don’t ignore what your body is telling you—early care can prevent complications and help you breathe easier.

Easy and Effective Steps for Relieving Symptoms at Home

Winter is gone, and we want to be outside. Spring allergies don’t mean you have to continue your hibernation. Keeping your indoor spaces pollen-free is easier than you might think.

One of the most effective things you can do is wash your sheets. I recommend changing and washing your bedding at least once a week during allergy season. If your symptoms are flaring up, make it twice a week. Pollen, dust, and other allergens collect on surfaces, especially where you sleep. 

It’s also smart to shower before bed, especially if you’ve been outside, to rinse off the day’s pollen and avoid bringing allergens into your bed. Better yet, shower as soon as you get home and change your clothes. This helps keep pollen off your furniture and out of other rooms where it can settle on floors, couches, and counters.

Keeping windows closed on high-pollen days and running a HEPA filter indoors makes a big difference. If you have pets that spend time outdoors, brushing or wiping them down before they come inside helps reduce the amount of pollen they track in.

Try the Basics First

When the pollen count rises, your allergy plan should be ready to go. For most people, allergies are severe enough that starting with over-the-counter medications before symptoms even begin is the most effective approach. Treating early and consistently helps keep symptoms from taking over your day.

OTC antihistamines like loratadine (Claritin), cetirizine (Zyrtec), and fexofenadine (Allegra) can help reduce sneezing, itching, and a runny nose. Nasal sprays like fluticasone (Flonase) or triamcinolone (Nasacort) reduce inflammation and provide more targeted relief.

Other helpful tools include saline nasal rinses to flush out pollen from your nasal passages and wearing sunglasses outdoors to protect your eyes from airborne allergens. Small changes can add up to big relief.

If you’re looking into more natural options, things like local honey or herbal supplements may help some people, but results are mixed. There’s no harm in trying them, but don't rely on them alone if your symptoms are getting in the way of daily life.

What If That’s Not Enough?

Sometimes OTC options aren’t enough, especially if your symptoms are severe or persistent. The good news is that there are many other treatments available.

Some patients benefit from a combination of medications, like a nasal corticosteroid spray in the morning and using an antihistamine during the day. Others may need stronger prescription options, especially if over-the-counter remedies aren’t providing full relief. There are also options like prescription eye drops or oral leukotriene inhibitors (such as montelukast) for more targeted treatment.

With so many choices, it’s normal to wonder where to start. While many over-the-counter options are safe for short-term use, it’s always best to talk with a healthcare provider—especially if your symptoms persist, worsen, or impact your daily life. Your physician or pharmacist can help guide you based on your specific symptoms, health history, and lifestyle. And if you’re not sure where to begin, you can always make an appointment with me at RightCare Clinic to discuss the best plan for you.

When to See a Provider

When you need stronger prescription options, it’s time to talk to your provider. Your family doctor or the RightCare Clinic can offer other solutions if your symptoms aren’t improving after a few weeks, are interfering with your sleep or daily life, or are accompanied by wheezing or shortness of breath. Allergy symptoms can also mimic or worsen other conditions, like asthma or sinus infections. A proper evaluation ensures you’re treating the right issue and getting the relief you need.

Ready to Breathe Easier?

If your allergies are getting in the way of your daily life, don’t tough it out. At RightCare Clinic, our providers can evaluate your symptoms and help develop a plan that reduces side effects, improves your comfort, and fits into your daily routine. You don’t have to suffer through spring—there are solutions that can work for you. We’re ready to support you through the sneezing season (and beyond). Make an appointment at RightCare Clinic to get a treatment plan tailored to you.

Todd Chassee, MD, FACEP, is medical director for RightCare Clinic and vice president of clinical services at Emergency Care Specialists