Spring may bring warm sunshine, blooming flowers, and fresh air, but for millions, it also brings sneezing, itchy eyes, and endless frustration. If you suffer from seasonal allergies, you know exactly how tough it can be.
In fact, about 27% of the world’s population struggles with allergies every spring and autumn, making what should be a beautiful time of year feel like a constant battle.
What makes it worse? Not knowing which over-the-counter (OTC) allergy medication to buy. With shelves filled with countless options – antihistamines, decongestants, nasal sprays, eye drops – it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
You stand there, reading labels, trying to decide between brands, active ingredients, and promises of “24-hour relief”, but how do you know which one will actually work for you?
Dr Themba Hadebe, clinical executive at Bonitas Medical Fund, understands this frustration. He’s here to explain seasonal allergies, how they can affect your daily life, and most importantly, how to find the right relief.
Whether you’re avoiding triggers or searching for the best ways to soothe your symptoms, knowing when to seek help can make all the difference.
Hadebe explained that these allergies were triggered by airborne allergens – tiny particles that enter the body through the respiratory system. These particles include pollen from trees, grass, weeds as well as mould spores and dust mites.
When these allergens enter the body, the immune system mistakenly labels them as harmful. In response, it releases chemicals like histamine to fight them off, leading to familiar and frustrating allergy symptoms.
Recognising the symptoms
Seasonal allergies can last for a few weeks or even months, depending on how severe the allergy is and how long the pollen season lasts. The most common symptoms include:
- Sneezing
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Itchy or watery eyes
- Coughing or throat irritation
- Sinus pressure and headaches
- Fatigue
- Postnasal drip
- Ear congestion
Less common symptoms can include:
- Headaches
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing
- Severe coughing
For people with asthma, these allergies can be even more serious. Hadebe advised that seasonal allergies can often trigger asthma attacks.
“Asthma sufferers should take extra precautions and always have their asthma pump on hand,” he warned.
Seasonal allergies can do more than just make you feel uncomfortable. “Whatever the cause of your seasonal allergy, it can make you feel miserable,” Hadebe said.
He explained that allergies often led to disrupted sleep because of congestion, sinus issues, and constant sneezing. This leaves many people feeling drained and exhausted throughout the day.
Allergies can also affect productivity at work or school. Fatigue and poor concentration can make it difficult to focus, while the need to avoid outdoor activities can severely limit socialising during the seasons when allergens are most active.
For those with asthma, allergies can make respiratory symptoms worse, further impacting quality of life.
“Allergies can cause significant discomfort and disrupt daily activities,” Hadebe added. “This makes managing them essential for maintaining your overall well-being.”
Over-the-counter remedies (OTC)
Fortunately, there are several over-the-counter remedies available to help ease allergy symptoms. Pharmacies offer a range of options, including:
Antihistamines: These are often the first line of defence, working by blocking the effects of histamine to relieve symptoms like sneezing and itching.
Decongestants: These help to relieve a stuffy nose by shrinking blood vessels in the nasal passages. However, Hadebe cautioned that decongestants could raise blood pressure, so people with cardiovascular conditions should use them carefully.
Nasal sprays: These can reduce inflammation in the nasal passages, providing relief from congestion.
Eye drops: For those struggling with itchy, red, or watery eyes, eye drops can offer quick relief.
Saline nasal irrigation: Rinsing your nose with a saline solution can help flush out mucus and allergens, reducing congestion and post-nasal drip.
Lifestyle changes to manage allergies
Medications alone may not always be enough. Hadebe also recommended some lifestyle changes to help manage allergies more effectively:
Stay indoors during peak pollen times, especially in the morning when levels are highest.
Use air purifiers with HEPA filters to remove allergens from the air inside your home.
Shower and change your clothes after being outside to remove pollen from your skin and hair.
Keep windows closed in your home and car to prevent pollen from entering.
Monitor daily pollen forecasts and take preventative measures when levels are high.
“Seasonal allergies are a common but manageable condition,” Hadebe said.
“With the right combination of OTC medications, lifestyle adjustments, and professional medical advice, you can reduce the impact allergies have on your life.
“Always pay attention to how your body is responding, and don’t hesitate to seek help if your symptoms persist or worsen,” he added.