As winter finally gives way to warmer weather, many of us look forward to fresh air, blooming trees, and more time outdoors. However, for thousands of people in our region, spring also marks the start of seasonal allergies, bringing on sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes, and fatigue. Understanding what triggers these symptoms and how to manage them can make this season much more comfortable.

Common Allergy Symptoms

Symptoms of seasonal allergies can vary from person to person, but often include:

• Stuffy or runny nose
• Sneezing
• Itchy or watery eyes
• Scratchy throat
• Postnasal drip
• Coughing or wheezing, especially in patients with asthma

This immune response happens because the body identifies pollen as a foreign invader, causing the release of chemicals like histamines — the source of many uncomfortable symptoms.

If your symptoms worsen outdoors and improve indoors, that’s a key sign that allergies may be to blame rather than a cold.

Why Spring Allergies Happen

Spring is a peak time for airborne pollen, especially from trees, grasses, and weeds. These plants release tiny pollen grains into the air as part of their natural life cycle. For individuals with allergies, the body mistakenly treats this pollen as a threat and triggers an immune response that leads to classic symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and itchy, watery eyes.

In Pennsylvania, tree pollens start early in the season, followed by grass pollens in May, and weed pollens later in the year — meaning spring can overlap with the start of multiple triggers. Mold spores also increase during the damp spring months and can contribute to symptoms.

Ways to Reduce Exposure

You can’t eliminate pollen, but you can reduce contact — and your symptoms — with a few everyday steps:

• Stay indoors on high‑pollen, windy days, when pollen travels easily. Rainy days, on the other hand, help clear pollen from the air.
• Keep windows and doors closed to prevent allergens from coming inside.
• Change clothes and wash your hair after being outdoors to remove pollen.
• Clean vents, filters, and surfaces where pollen can settle.
• Avoid mowing the lawn or being near freshly cut grass if symptoms flare.

These small adjustments can help improve day‑to‑day comfort during peak allergy season.

Is it Time to See an Allergist?

If over‑the‑counter medicines aren’t helping or your symptoms are worsening each year, it may be time to visit an allergist. Specialists at UPMC can perform skin or blood testing to identify specific triggers such as tree, grass, or weed pollens, as well as outdoor molds.

An allergist can also determine whether you’re a candidate for allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots), which works by gradually desensitizing your immune system to the allergens affecting you. Over time, this can significantly reduce symptoms and, for some patients, offer long‑term relief.

Skye Miller, PA-C, is with UPMC Allergy and Immunology and sees patients at UPMC Williamsport Divine Providence Campus, 1705 Warren Ave., Williamsport. To schedule an appointment with Skye, call 570-320-7070. For more information, visit UPMC.com/AllergyNCPA.