Everything You Need to Know About Spring Allergies

By Soriyya Bawa

Spring is officially here, but for some people, that just means having to deal with runny noses, sneezing, itchy eyes, irritated skin, and other unpleasant spring skin allergies. But what causes spring allergies? How can pollen make your skin itch? And are there any natural remedies for springtime allergies? Keep reading for answers to all these questions and more.

What Causes Spring Allergies?

The warmer spring weather drives common allergens from tree pollen, weeds, and spores to become more airborne. If you’re allergic to pollen, for instance, and you breathe it in, your immune system mistakes it as a threat; it goes into overdrive to fight the allergen attack by releasing antibodies, which then triggers the release of histamines into the bloodstream. It’s these histamines that cause the severe spring allergy symptoms, like itchiness and a runny nose.

Springtime Allergies Symptoms

Some people experience more severe spring allergy symptoms, while others only suffer mild allergies. The most common signs are itchy eyes, a runny nose, and sneezing; however, a lot of people also experience spring skin allergies. The most widespread allergen in the spring is pollen, and one of the most common pollen allergy symptoms is itchy skin. The release of histamines leads to inflammation, which for some people, can manifest as itchy skin that’s more sensitive and irritable.

There are many simple spring skin care tips that can help you deal with allergy-related itchiness. For starters, stick to wearing cotton fabrics, which won’t irritate the skin as much. Antihistamines can also help bring down the inflammation. One of the most essential spring skin care tips is moisturizing; the last thing you want is irritated skin that’s also dry—even better if you use a moisturizer that doubles as an effective wrinkle-fighter. Click here for an anti-wrinkle cream that would fit perfectly into a spring skin care routine.

Inflammation can also cause itchy eyes, but rubbing too much can lead to dark circles and puffy bags under your eyes. If you prefer natural remedies for springtime allergies, you’re in luck, because there are several different all-natural spring skin care tips you can try for eye care. For instance, cucumbers, a cold towel, chilled herbal tea bags, and raw potato slices over the eyes have all been shown to help reduce puffiness and dark circles; they may help to reduce itchiness, too.

You should also make sure to use an eye cream every day, because it’s formulated specially for this sensitive skin—gently massage the skin when you apply the eye cream to distribute the fluid that can build up. Click here for an eye cream that would be perfect for your spring skin care routine.

Alternative and Herbal Remedies for Springtime Allergies

There are also plenty of other natural remedies for springtime allergies that you can try. Here are a few alternative-medicine and herbal remedies that are commonly used. Remember to always consult your doctor or naturopath before trying any new plant or herbal remedies, just to avoid side effects or possible reactions.

• Butterbur: This is one of the best herbal remedies for allergies. Studies have shown that butterbur extract can work just as well as popular over-the-counter antihistamines, but without the side effect of drowsiness.
• Quercetin: This flavonoid is an antioxidant that may be able to block histamines, thereby relieving allergy symptoms.
• Bromelain: An enzyme found in pineapple stems, Bromelain is believed to help relieve inflammation and swelling caused by allergies.
• Acupuncture: In a study published in the journal Annals of Internal Medicine, participants who completed 12 acupuncture sessions experienced greater allergy symptom relief with less antihistamine use.

Other Natural Remedies for Springtime Allergies:

• Shower as soon as you in from outside to get rid of allergens that may be resting on the surface of your skin and to avoid spreading the allergens on to clean surfaces, like your bed or couch.
• Avoid going out early in the morning, when the pollen count is highest.
• Regular laundry can also help with getting rid of allergens and reduce the chance of an allergic reaction.
• A saline solution can help relieve sinus congestion—just combine salt and water in a small bottle that you can use to spray the solution up your nostrils.

This article originally appeared on AgeIn.com.