Top treatments for seasonal allergies can dramatically improve your comfort and quality of life—especially if you live in a place like New York City, where spring and fall bring high pollen counts and airborne irritants. If you suffer from sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes, and fatigue during certain times of the year, you’re not alone. Seasonal allergies, also known as allergic rhinitis or hay fever, affect millions of people every year. Fortunately, with the right care and treatment plan, you can keep symptoms under control and breathe easier.
What Causes Seasonal Allergies?
Seasonal allergies are triggered by allergens in the environment that appear during specific times of the year. Common seasonal allergens include:
- Tree pollen – Common in the spring (oak, birch, maple)
- Grass pollen – Peaks in late spring and early summer
- Weed pollen – Ragweed is a major offender in the late summer and fall
- Mold spores – Thrive in damp areas, especially during the fall
When your immune system overreacts to these harmless substances, it releases histamines, which trigger the classic allergy symptoms.
Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Itchy or watery eyes
- Sneezing
- Postnasal drip
- Fatigue
- Scratchy throat or cough
If these symptoms recur around the same time each year, you’re likely dealing with seasonal allergies.
Top Treatments for Seasonal Allergies
Managing seasonal allergies often requires a combination of lifestyle changes and medical treatments. Here are the top options recommended by ENT specialists like Dr. Michael Burnett:
1. Antihistamines
Antihistamines are a first-line treatment that block histamine—the chemical responsible for allergy symptoms. Available over the counter and by prescription, these medications can reduce sneezing, itching, and runny nose.
- Non-drowsy options include cetirizine (Zyrtec), loratadine (Claritin), and fexofenadine (Allegra).
2. Nasal Corticosteroids
These prescription or over-the-counter sprays reduce inflammation inside the nose, helping relieve congestion, sneezing, and nasal itch.
- Examples: fluticasone (Flonase), mometasone (Nasonex), budesonide (Rhinocort).
3. Decongestants
Decongestants shrink swollen nasal tissues and help open up the nasal passages. They are available in oral or spray form but should be used with caution.
- Short-term use only: Extended use of nasal sprays like oxymetazoline can lead to rebound congestion.
4. Saline Nasal Irrigation
Rinsing the nasal passages with saline solution (via a Neti pot or squeeze bottle) can flush out allergens, reduce nasal congestion, and improve breathing.
5. Allergy Immunotherapy
Allergy shots (subcutaneous immunotherapy) or sublingual tablets (placed under the tongue) expose your body to small, controlled amounts of allergens to help build tolerance over time.
- Effective for long-term relief, especially when medications aren’t enough.
6. Avoidance Strategies
Avoiding allergens as much as possible is one of the most effective ways to reduce symptoms.
- Keep windows closed during high pollen days.
- Use HEPA filters in your home and change air filters regularly.
- Shower and change clothes after spending time outdoors.
- Check daily pollen forecasts and limit time outside on high pollen days.
When to See an ENT Specialist
If over-the-counter medications and avoidance strategies aren’t providing enough relief, or if your allergy symptoms are impacting your daily life, it’s time to see an ENT specialist. Dr. Michael Burnett in New York City offers comprehensive allergy evaluations and customized treatment plans to help patients manage even the most persistent symptoms.
Get Relief from Seasonal Allergies in NYC
Living in New York doesn’t mean you have to suffer through allergy season. Dr. Michael Burnett and the team at Ear, Nose & Throat of New York provide expert diagnosis and personalized treatments to help you feel better year-round.
Contact us today to schedule your allergy consultation:
Ear, Nose & Throat of New York
Michael C. Burnett, MD
115 East 57th Street Suite 600
New York, NY 10022
212-867-4813
https://earnosethroatofnewyork.com/
Don’t let seasonal allergies control your life. Take control of your symptoms and breathe easier with expert ENT care right in the heart of NYC.
