• Allergies

5 Effective Ways to Manage Spring Allergies in Chicago

Medically reviewed and edited by Michelle Everhart, FNP-C

Whether you’re a visitor or a resident in Chicago, experiencing a flare-up of spring allergies can be extremely frustrating. But you’re not alone in this struggle.

Seasonal allergies affect millions of Americans every year. Luckily, this condition is relatively easy to treat.

In this article, we’ll take a look at why your allergies might be flaring up in Chicago and what you can do to effectively manage your symptoms while in the area.

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Understanding Spring Allergies in Chicago

Spring allergies in Chicago can stem from various causes, not just the heightened pollen levels from blooming plants and trees.

Chicago has a unique climate and geographical location that play a significant role in how allergens affect residents.

This city is situated along Lake Michigan and experiences a phenomenon called the ‘lake effect,’ which can intensify pollen distribution.

This effect results in rising air currents from the water, spreading and dispersing pollen more widely and elevating the risk of allergen exposure.

The city’s urban landscape can also have an impact on allergen levels. Urban areas tend to feature a greater concentration of tree species that are known to produce more pollen.

City pollution can also increase the impact of pollen allergies and make it more irritating to the respiratory system.

Symptoms of spring allergies

Spring allergies — also known as hay fever — can cause a variety of symptoms, depending on the cause and the individual’s sensitivity level.

Generally, most people will experience allergy symptoms that include the following:

• Frequent and intense bouts of sneezing

• Runny or itchy nose

• Nasal congestion

• Red, itchy, and watery eyes

• Swollen eyelids

• Sore and itchy throat and ears

• Coughing

• Fatigue

• Headaches

How to Manage Spring Allergies in Chicago

Minimize your allergen exposure

The first step to managing your allergies in Chicago is to minimize your exposure to substances that cause uncomfortable symptoms to flare up.

Spring allergies are mainly triggered by plant or tree pollen and dust, so organizing activities to minimize exposure to these allergens can help. This may include:

• Staying indoors when pollen counts are high

• Keeping windows closed to prevent allergens from entering your home

• Changing and washing your clothes after spending time outdoors

• Using air purifiers with HEPA filters — high-quality air filters that can remove more than 90% of allergens — can reduce the presence of allergens like pollen or mold spores in your home

• Using allergen-proof mattresses and pillow covers

Minimizing your exposure to pollen grains can be effective in alleviating allergy symptoms and preventing them from negatively affecting your daily life.

If you can’t avoid allergens, consider wearing protective clothing — such as masks, sunglasses, and hats — to protect yourself from pollen in the air.

Track pollen counts

Staying informed about the pollen counts in different areas in Chicago can help you prepare and manage your allergy symptoms more effectively.

You can track these pollen counts on local weather channels and dedicated websites or apps that provide daily updates. Popular options include:

• My Pollen Count

• Pollen Wise

• The Real Pollen Count

• Pollen.com

On high pollen count days — which are usually windy, hot, and dry — plan indoor activities to minimize allergen exposure.

During allergy seasons, pollen counts also tend to be higher in the early mornings and afternoons, so try to plan your activities for the middle of the day.

Use medication for symptomatic relief

Many over-the-counter (OTC) medications can provide relief from spring allergy symptoms, including:

• Antihistamines: These medications stop the body from producing histamine, a chemical that causes allergy symptoms to flare up. This can help to relieve common symptoms like sneezing, itching, runny nose, and watery eyes.

• Oral decongestants: Decongestants are effective for alleviating nasal congestion often linked to spring allergies and pollen season.

• Nasal sprays: Steroid nasal sprays can reduce inflammation and help ease a stuffy or runny nose. They are usually most effective when used regularly during allergy season.

If these OTC options aren’t effective in treating your spring allergies or if your symptoms are severe, your doctor may recommend prescription drugs.

They are largely the same as the OTC medications but typically contain more potent ingredients, making them more effective at treating persistent allergies.

Consider using home remedies

For mild cases of spring allergies, home remedies may offer some relief from uncomfortable symptoms. Popular options include:

• Saline nasal rinses: Using a saline solution can help clear pollen from the nasal passages. Salt may also help reduce inflammation and nasal congestion.

• Consuming honey: Eating local honey is believed by some to help build tolerance to local pollen. However, more evidence is required to fully support this claim, and, in some cases, honey may in fact worsen allergy symptoms.

• Drinking herbal teas: Certain herbal teas — like peppermint or ginger — can have natural antihistamine and anti-inflammatory effects, which can soothe irritated nasal passages and alleviate symptoms.

It’s important to discuss the use of these home remedies with your doctor before you incorporate them into your allergy management plan.

In most cases, home remedies should be used alongside medication to ensure a comprehensive approach to alleviating symptoms.

Make dietary changes

Seasonal allergies may be managed with specific dietary changes, particularly if you can avoid foods known for their high pollen count that may worsen your symptoms. These may include:

• Apples

• Almonds

• Celery

• Strawberries

• Cherries

Some foods may also mimic allergens and can aggravate symptoms when consumed.

For example, individuals with ragweed pollen allergies may find that consuming bananas, melons, or chamomile tends to worsen their symptoms.

Other examples of foods that may mimic spring allergens include:

• Oranges

• Tomatoes

• Figs

• Zucchini

• Cucumber

• Artichokes

These examples aren’t comprehensive, and if you suspect that certain food is worsening your allergic reactions, consult your doctor for a professional diagnosis.

When Should You See a Doctor About Spring Allergies?

While most allergy sufferers can manage their symptoms with OTC medication, home remedies, and lifestyle changes, there are certain situations where you should consult a medical professional.

Schedule an appointment with your doctor if you experience any of the following:

• Persistent or worsening symptoms that don’t improve with treatment

• Symptoms that interfere with your sleep, work, and daily activities

• Side effects from OTC medications, like drowsiness, dry mouth, or dizziness

• Signs of an asthma attack, such as wheezing, chest tightness, or shortness of breath

• The development of sinus infections

Knowing when you need to see a doctor for your allergies can help improve your overall health and quality of life.

It’s also important to consult your doctor about severe allergy symptoms — even if they’re only seasonal — to avoid long-term complications.

Where Can You Learn More About Managing Allergies?

If you’re concerned about your symptoms or want to know more about treating spring allergies, LifeMD is here to help.

LifeMD can connect you to a team of medical professionals who can assist you with information and provide guidance on managing your allergies this spring, and beyond.

Make an appointment today to get started.

Michelle Everhart, FNP-C

Michelle earned her MSN with a specialization in Family Nurse Practitioner from California State University. In her spare time, Michelle enjoys working out at the gym with her friends and spending quality time with his husband and three little boys. She also enjoys singing and freestyle dancing in their living room when the right song comes along.

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