When warm weather hits, it's time to get outside, but allergies can make you wish you had stayed inside. Allergies can happen any time of year, but are especially hard on people during spring, summer and fall months in Minnesota while things are blooming.  

Seasonal allergies are caused by pollen and molds from various weeds, grasses and trees. Different plants bloom at different times so you may only have allergy symptoms when the plants you are allergic to are blooming. Outdoor molds, dust and pet dander are present year-round.   

Is It a Cold or Allergies? 

It can be confusing at times to know if you are suffering from allergies, a cold, or both. A fever or body aches/pains are not allergy symptoms. A cold will typically last 3-10 days, but can last up to 2 weeks. Allergies will hang around. Itchy eyes, sneezing, postnasal drainage, runny nose, and nasal congestion are common with both allergies and a cold. Sore throat and cough may be due to allergies if you are suffering from postnasal drainage, but they are mostly associated with a cold.  

How to Reduce Allergens in Your Home 

  • Keep windows closed as much as possible 
  • Use air conditioning with special allergy filters and change them frequently 
  • Shower and change clothing after outdoor activities to wash off pollen allergens 
  • Remove shoes before entering your house 
  • Wash bedding in hot water once a week 
  • Avoid down comforters/pillows and get hypoallergenic pillow and mattress covers if allergic to dust mites 
  • Avoid sleeping with stuffed animals or pets 
  • Avoid carpet if possible. If unable to remove it, vacuum as often as possible 
  • Consider a HEPA filter (high efficiency particle air filter) in the bedroom 

How to Minimize Outdoor Allergen Exposure 

  • Stay inside when pollen counts are high, particularly from 5 a.m. to 10 a.m. and on dry, windy days 
  • Avoid raking or mowing if possible. Consider wearing a mask, gloves, hat, and sunglasses when mowing, gardening or raking lawn 
  • Plan indoor activities when the pollen counts or humidity is high 
  • Keep car windows closed when traveling 
  • Avoid barns and storage areas for hay 
  • Keep trees trimmed over home to diminish moisture and mold growth on home  

Ways to Treat Allergy Symptoms 

There are several over-the-counter medications that can provide relief. It's best to start allergy medications a month or two before allergy season starts. 

  • Nasal sprays tend to work best such as Flonase and Nasacort. These are nasal steroid sprays that help decrease inflammation caused by common allergens. They must be used every day to help keep symptoms from starting or keeping symptoms controlled.   
  • Over-the-counter antihistamines include Claritin, Zyrtec, Allegra and Alavert, and Benadryl.  
  • Rinsing your nose with a Neti pot or similar rinse can also prove beneficial. It is recommended to use distilled water and not tap water when doing the rinses to prevent infection. You can do these rinses/sprays multiple times a day. 
  • Nasal spray decongestants, such as Afrin, can help as well. It is VERY important to use nasal spray decongestants directed.  

Allergy shots are utilized for symptoms that are not managed by the above options. A consultation with an allergist and allergy testing are needed. Your primary care provider can refer you to the appropriate provider. All Perham Health clinics can administer allergy shots very easily once ordered. 

To get allergy relief, make an appointment with your provider.

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Julie Tobkin, NP
Perham Health