Spring Allergy Outlook for 2024

With bizarre weather sweeping the country this winter – monsoon-level rains, a warm February, huge snowstorms, even winter tornadoes – it can be hard to predict what spring has in store for us this year.

Those with spring allergies may also be wondering what they can expect for symptoms given the winter weather. Allergy season is arriving early in many parts of the country – warm weather, heavy rains in some areas, all seem to contribute. Let’s explore typical spring allergens, symptoms, and what we may be able to expect this year.

Spring Allergens

The two allergens that cause the most symptoms in the spring are trees and grass, and it makes sense, since those are two plants coming into full bloom this time of year. Where you are in the country determines which specific trees and grasses grow, and what time they start blooming.

This allergy seasons map can tell you what specific allergens will be in your area and at what time frame they typically bloom.

Weather Impact

The amount of snow from the winter as well as the temperature can have a big impact on what to expect for spring allergy symptoms.

Temperature

The temperature impacts when symptoms start. If the weather stays cold and frosty through April, you may not feel symptoms until May. Additionally, abundant levels of sunshine and warmth make a great environment for plants to grow, so warmer stretches can lead to more growth and more symptoms.

Amount of Snow

Mold is another allergen that pops up during the spring as snow melts and moisture increases. Mold finds its home in organic materials like leaves and dirt and releases spores that make folks itch and sneeze. If there was less snow to melt, there may be less mold and therefore less symptoms. Excessive spring rains could bring on more mold.

These factors can lead to different symptoms when compared to previous years.

Spring Allergy Symptoms

Pollen from trees and grass, and spores from mold, are inhaled and that’s what causes symptoms for those who are sensitive. When they enter the respiratory system, common symptoms include:

• Sneezing
• Itchy and/or watery eyes
• Congestion
• Runny and/or itchy nose
• Itchy mouth, throat and/or ears
• Cough
• Postnasal drip

The best ways to avoid symptoms are through avoidance, symptom-relievers, and treatment that can retrain the immune system – or a combination of all three.

You can avoid your offending allergens by keeping your windows closed, wearing protective clothing when outdoors, and other ideas can be found here.

Symptom-relievers like antihistamines, nasal sprays, and eye drops can help mask the symptoms and make you feel better temporarily.

Another option is to retrain the body to stop reacting with immunotherapy. Sublingual immunotherapy, also known as allergy drops, slowly introduces the body to problem allergens and the dose strength is increased slowly over time. Over time, the body learns to not react to these allergens. The process typically takes three to five years to build lasting tolerance, so avoidance and symptom-relievers can be helpful in the meantime.

To get started feeling better, find a provider near you that offers allergy testing and allergy drop therapy following The La Crosse Method™ Protocol.