As the seasons change and pollen fills the air, many people find themselves battling more than just sneezing and itchy eyes. Respiratory symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath and chest tightness can also flare up during allergy season, making it difficult to breathe clearly.
Whether you have seasonal allergies or an underlying condition like asthma, managing these symptoms is key to staying active and feeling your best.
Why Allergy Season Affects Your Breathing
Allergy season brings an increase in airborne allergens like pollen, mold spores and dust mites. Nearly 100 million Americans experience allergy symptoms each year. When these particles are inhaled, they can trigger inflammation in the airways, leading to a range of respiratory symptoms. People with preexisting respiratory conditions may be especially vulnerable, but even those without a chronic diagnosis can feel the effects.
Common allergens that impact breathing include:
- Tree pollen in the spring in Riverfront City Park
- Grass pollen in late spring and summer
- Weed pollen in late summer and fall
- Mold spores in damp, warm environments
- Dust mites, which can persist year-round but increase with indoor humidity
Recognizing Respiratory Allergy Symptoms
Respiratory symptoms caused by allergies often resemble those of a mild respiratory infection but tend to persist or worsen in response to allergen exposure. These may include:
- Coughing, especially at night or in the morning
- Wheezing or whistling sounds when breathing
- Shortness of breath during physical activity or while resting
- Chest tightness or discomfort
- Nasal congestion and postnasal drip that lead to throat irritation
If symptoms occur alongside itchy eyes, sneezing or a runny nose, allergies may be the root cause.
Strategies to Manage Respiratory Symptoms
Managing your environment and taking proactive steps can make a significant difference in how your body responds to seasonal allergens. Here are practical ways to reduce symptoms and breathe easier:
- Monitor pollen counts: Check daily pollen forecasts and limit outdoor activities when levels are high, especially during early morning and windy afternoons.
- Keep windows closed: Prevent pollen from entering your home or car by keeping windows shut during peak allergy season.
- Use air purifiers: HEPA air filters can reduce allergens indoors by trapping airborne particles.
- Change clothes after being outside: Pollen can cling to fabrics, so changing and showering when you return home helps reduce exposure.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking water thins mucus and keeps your respiratory system functioning more smoothly.
- Clean regularly: Dust and vacuum frequently, especially if you have pets or live in a high-pollen area.
Medications and Treatments
In addition to environmental control, medications may provide relief for allergy-related respiratory symptoms. These include:
- Antihistamines: Help block the allergic response and reduce sneezing and postnasal drip.
- Nasal corticosteroids: Reduce nasal inflammation that can contribute to breathing difficulties.
- Inhalers: For those with asthma or reactive airway issues, quick-relief or daily control inhalers may be necessary.
- Leukotriene modifiers: These medications help control airway inflammation and are sometimes prescribed for both allergies and asthma.
Talk to a healthcare provider before starting any new medication to ensure it’s safe and appropriate for your specific symptoms.
When to Seek Medical Attention
If your respiratory symptoms are severe or worsening, don’t ignore them. You should contact a doctor if you experience:
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath that interferes with daily activities
- Wheezing that doesn’t improve with usual treatments
- Persistent coughing lasting more than two weeks
- Symptoms that keep you up at night or wake you from sleep
Allergy-related breathing problems can usually be managed effectively, but prompt care is essential to prevent complications.
While allergy season can be a tough time for your respiratory system, the right combination of prevention, treatment and awareness can keep you feeling well.
To learn more or to better understand your allergies, contact Willamette ENT & Facial Plastic Surgery to schedule an appointment today.
“Everyone is nice and very efficient.”