Sneezing Your Way Through Seasonal Allergies? Let’s Fix That!

Spring and early summer is beautiful time of year —but for allergy sufferers, it can also be brutal. As trees bloom and flowers pop, pollen levels rise, and the sniffles start. You might find yourself in a daily cycle of sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes, and just feeling…blah.

While nothing replaces the care of a healthcare provider, there are some home remedies and simple lifestyle changes that can help take the edge off allergy symptoms. We asked Dr. Ariel Chung a family medicine physician at St. Francis, for some advice on what really works—and when it’s time to stop DIY-ing and call a healthcare provider.

Home remedies that may offer relief

1. Neti-pot/saline nasal rinse
A neti pot rinses out nasal passages using a gentle saline solution. It’s great for clearing pollen, dust, and mucus—but be careful.

“Always use distilled or sterile water, and follow the instructions closely,” says Dr. Chung. “Never use tap water without proper preparation—it can introduce harmful organisms.” If you don’t notice relief after a week or two of regular use, it’s time to check in with your provider.

2. Saline nasal sprays
Easier than a neti pot, these over-the-counter sprays offer quick relief for congestion. But skip decongestant sprays like Afrin for anything beyond three days.

“Decongestant sprays work well short-term but can cause rebound congestion,” Dr. Chung explains. “That means your symptoms can come back even worse when you stop using them.”

3. Over-the-counter allergy medication
Antihistamines like Claritin, Zyrtec, and Allegra are widely available and often effective. They reduce the immune response causing all those annoying symptoms. But be aware of side effects (like drowsiness) and don’t overdo it.

“If you’re using them daily and still struggling, see a healthcare provider,” Dr. Chung advises. “It could be time to consider a prescription treatment—or allergy testing.

Lifestyle tweaks that help

Sometimes small changes at home can make a big difference.

• Vacuum and dust often reduce pet dander and dust buildup.
• Wash bedding weekly in hot water to remove allergens. Don’t hang outside to dry.
• Use an air purifier with a HEPA filter and keep windows closed on high-pollen days.
• Check for mold in bathrooms, basements, or around HVAC systems.
• Stay allergy-aware by tracking daily pollen counts and limiting outdoor exposure on high-count days.
  

When to call a healthcare provider

So how do you know when it’s time to stop trying home remedies and get professional help?

“If your allergies are interfering with your daily life—sleep, work, or just feeling like yourself—it’s time to see a provider,” Dr. Chung says.

Some signs you shouldn’t ignore:

• You’ve been using home remedies for two or more weeks with no improvement
• You’re experiencing a new or worsening pattern of symptoms
• You develop a full-body rash, severe nasal blockage, or constant coughing
• You notice swelling of your face, lips, or tongue—or you’re having trouble breathing

“Those last symptoms are signs of a serious allergic reaction,” warns Dr. Chung. “Go to the ER right away if they occur.”

Final Takeaway: Breathe Easier This Season — and All Year Long

Yes, allergies can be a drag—but you don’t have to suffer through them. With a mix of smart home remedies, simple lifestyle changes, and support from a trusted healthcare provider, you can breathe easier and enjoy the season.

Whether you’re looking for relief from seasonal allergies or need care for everyday health concerns, Dr. Ariel Chung is here for you. As a board-certified family medicine physician, she sees patients of all ages for everything from allergy management and chronic conditions to preventive care and wellness visits.