Symptoms

Seasonal Allergy Symptoms Overview

When the seasons change, allergy symptoms can change with them. In people with allergic rhinitis, also called hay fever, pollen triggers an immune reaction that causes symptoms. About one in four U.S. adults has a diagnosed seasonal allergy (CDC).

Most seasonal symptoms are caused by pollen from trees, grasses and weeds. Light, dry pollen carried by the wind causes most allergies; the heavier, sticky pollen of many bright flowers is carried by insects and is less likely to trigger symptoms.

Spring, summer and fall are the main pollen seasons. In winter, outdoor pollen is low, but indoor allergens such as dust mites, pet dander, mold and cockroaches can still cause symptoms (ACAAI).

Here is a review of the seasonal allergy symptoms and issues:

Eye Irritation

When allergens enter the body, they can cause the immune system to get in defense mode and irritate the eyes. This will cause one of the many symptoms linked to eye irritation:

• Burning eyes
• Watery eyes
• Redness
• Swelling around the eyes
• Itching

One or both eyes may be affected. Those who have allergies may show eye irritation paired with other effects when certain things come in contact with the body and the immune system sees as bad. It will then release histamines into the bloodstream that can cause eye irritation among others.

Eye irritation may show at any time of the year but mostly happens during the change in seasons. Spring, summer, and fall months are times when allergens flair up the most.

Nasal Irritation

Seasonal allergies can also cause nasal irritation effects like:

• Mucus
• Sneezing
• Postnasal drip
• Runny nose
• Stuffed nose
• Sinus problem
• Swollen nasal tissue

Nasal problems may be grouped with other seasonal allergy symptoms when the body makes histamines to protect itself. Nasal irritation can be followed by sneezing, itchy or sore throat, watery eyes, and sometimes cough. It can also cause headache, swelling pain, or pressure around the forehead, nose, and eyes. Allergy rhinitis causes the nasal tissues to swell and shrink air passages, causing trouble breathing in some cases.

Respiratory Irritation

An effect that begins in the nasal passage because of seasonal allergies. Respiratory irritation can cause signs like:

• Shortness of breath
• Chest tightness
• Wheezing
• Asthma
• Coughing
• Difficulty talking
• Fatigue

Other issues may include itchy throat, sore, or dry throat to name a few. Adding to that, people with hay fever may show respiratory problems and in more severe conditions, asthma. A big sign of this is the whistle sound that comes from the chest while breathing. Not all with seasonal respiratory issues will get asthma, however. But those who already have them may trigger an asthma attack.

Pollen is a common trigger for allergic asthma. If you have asthma, keep track of your symptoms during allergy season and follow your asthma action plan.

Skin Irritation

Some may show skin irritation and reactions when the seasons change. People who already have skin issues may notice that hay fever or pollen allergy triggers a skin rash. However, even people with no prior skin issues may show skin rash or irritation as a result of the higher pollen count in spring and summer. The types of rash that you may get in this season are:

• Atopic dermatitis
• Hives
• Contact dermatitis

Additionally, these skin problems may look like dryness, rashes, itching, inflammation, or cracked skin. Aside from pollen, change in season can boost the breeding of some insects and bugs.

Not only that, in the summer, people are more likely to spend time outdoors. This means they are more likely to come in contact with allergens, causing skin effects. Also, the temperature increase may cause skin issues like:

• Heat rash
• Insect sting
• Tick bites

A doctor will be able to tell if it’s a rash and know how best to treat it, however.

Sickness and Other Conditions

Seasonal allergies can also leave you feeling run-down. These symptoms are possible:

• Fatigue
• Poor sleep
• Irritability
• Trouble concentrating
• Upset stomach from postnasal drip
• Headache or sinus pressure
• Plugged ears
• Itchy mouth or throat
• Dark circles under the eyes

Hay fever does not cause fever or body aches (ACAAI). Vomiting, diarrhea or fever suggest another cause, such as an infection, so contact your doctor.

Learn more about feeling sick with allergies and how to tell allergies from COVID-19, colds and flu.

Conclusion

Whether your symptoms are mild or affect your quality of life, you can reduce them. Antihistamines and nasal steroid sprays help many people, and learning your triggers helps you avoid them. If medicines aren’t enough, immunotherapy may help.

Lastly, if you notice any of these reactions in your body, you should take steps to make sure you get proper treatment. There are many over the counter medications for all types of allergies. You should clear any new meds with your doctor first.

---

Written by: Madiha Ather Hashmi (November 11, 2020)

This article is for general education and is not medical advice. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about your symptoms and before starting, stopping, or combining any medicine.

Seasonal Allergy Symptom FAQs

What are the most common seasonal allergy symptoms?

Sneezing, a runny or stuffy nose, and itchy, watery eyes, nose or mouth (ACAAI).

Can allergies cause a fever?

No. Fever points to an infection (ACAAI).

Can allergies make you tired?

Yes. Hay fever can cause fatigue and poor sleep.

When should I see a doctor?

If symptoms last for weeks, disrupt sleep or daily life, or include wheezing or trouble breathing.

Sources