Managing allergies: tips and treatments for every season

Spring, summer, autumn, or winter—each season brings its own allergens that make life difficult for millions of people. Whether it's birch pollen in spring, grasses in summer, or house dust mites in winter, seasonal allergies are as varied as their symptoms. This article explains the most common seasonal allergies, the symptoms they cause, and how they can be relieved—so you can enjoy life even with allergies.

Table of Contents

• What are the most common seasonal allergies?
• Symptoms of seasonal allergies
• How are seasonal allergies diagnosed?
• Tips for relieving allergy symptoms
• Allergy treatment by a doctor
• Summary

What are the most common seasonal allergies?

Seasonal allergies are allergic reactions that typically occur at certain times of the year. The frequency and intensity of these allergies strongly depend on environmental factors such as the geographical region and the plants that grow there.

While some allergies—such as to house dust mites, animal dander, or indoor mold—can occur year-round, there are allergens that primarily cause problems during specific seasons. Allergens are substances that are actually harmless but can trigger a false reaction from the immune system, known as an allergy. These seasonal allergies are mainly triggered by pollen or other weather-dependent factors and vary in intensity.

Typical pollen seasons in Germany, for example, include the following types:

• Spring: Pollen from trees such as birch, alder, hazel, ash, or oak
• Summer: Grass pollen (e.g., rye), herb pollen (e.g., plantain)
• Autumn: Herb pollen (e.g., ragweed)

Source: Damialis et al., 2019

Symptoms of seasonal allergies

The symptoms of seasonal allergies are diverse and can vary greatly depending on the type of allergen, individual sensitivity, and the intensity of exposure:

• Respiratory system: Sneezing, blocked or runny nose, coughing
• Eyes: Itching, redness, watery eyes
• Skin: Itching, eczema
• General: Fatigue, headaches, difficulty concentrating

Source: Cleveland Clinic, 2022

How are seasonal allergies diagnosed?

The diagnosis of seasonal allergies is based on a comprehensive evaluation using various methods. A thorough assessment and specialist consultation are essential to initiate the right treatment.

• Medical history: Recording of symptoms, timing of occurrence, and potential triggers
• Prick test: Application of allergens to the skin to check for local reactions (under medical supervision)
• Blood tests (e.g., specific IgE): Measurement of allergen-specific IgE antibody levels
• Provocation tests: Controlled triggering of a reaction, e.g., in the nose or eyes (under medical supervision)
• Patch test: Application of allergens to the skin (especially for contact allergies) (under medical supervision)

Source: Gesundheitsinformation, 2024

In addition to classical methods, modern alternatives such as the Comprehensive Allergy Test or the Homed-IQ Inhalation Allergy Test offer a convenient and discreet way to determine allergen-specific IgE antibodies. With this test, potential triggers such as pollen, house dust mites, or animal dander can be identified from home. The results provide clear insights into the allergy-causing substances and make it easier to tailor treatment to individual needs.

Tips for relieving allergy symptoms

There are various strategies to reduce allergy-related discomfort, which can be both preventive and soothing. These tips are especially helpful for people who suffer from seasonal allergies such as hay fever:

• Stay informed: Monitor pollen and mold counts. During allergy season, weather reports in newspapers, on the radio, and on TV often include this information.
• Avoid pollen: Keep windows closed during peak allergy seasons and consider using pollen screens. HEPA filters can be helpful indoors.
• Wash your clothes: Change clothes after spending time outdoors.
• Shower after being outside: A nasal rinse can help remove allergens; wash your hair and change clothes after working or playing outside.
• Ventilate early in the morning: Pollen levels are generally lower in the early hours.
• Avoid carpets: Allergens often accumulate in carpets and other textiles such as curtains.
• Use medications: Antihistamines or nasal sprays can help relieve allergy symptoms. Consult your doctor for comprehensive advice.

Source: ACAAI, 2017; Mayo Clinic, 2024

Allergy treatment by a doctor

Medical treatment for allergies focuses on both relieving acute symptoms and offering long-term therapeutic approaches. Antihistamines, corticosteroid nasal sprays, and eye drops are commonly used for immediate symptom control. Desensitization (specific immunotherapy) can permanently reduce sensitivity to allergens. In addition, personalized daily strategies and emergency plans are developed to help patients manage their allergies in everyday life (Allergy Information Service, 2021).

Summary

Seasonal allergies affect millions of people and tend to worsen at certain times of the year, for example due to tree pollen in spring or grass pollen in summer. They manifest in a variety of symptoms such as respiratory problems, itchy eyes, or skin reactions. Diagnosis is based on medical history, skin tests, and blood tests. To relieve symptoms, allergen avoidance, nasal rinses, specific medications, and long-term immunotherapy are recommended. Practical tips such as keeping windows closed, using pollen protection, and regular cleaning can further help improve quality of life despite having allergies.