Don't rely only on anti-histamines this allergy season

Seasonal allergies stem from complex inflammatory responses rather than histamine alone, rendering oral antihistamines insufficient for many sufferers. Board-certified allergist Dr. Prathyusha Savjani advocates a three-pronged management strategy: minimizing allergen exposure, utilizing targeted medications, and pursuing long-term immunotherapy. Reducing exposure involves practical habits like keeping windows closed, using HEPA-filtered air purifiers, and washing off pollen immediately after being outdoors. For symptom relief, nasal steroid sprays and saline rinses are highly effective, particularly when used consistently before peak pollen levels arrive. If these measures fail, immunotherapy—via allergy shots or drops—offers a path to desensitization by gradually training the immune system to tolerate allergens. Successfully managing these symptoms requires proactive, multi-layered interventions that address inflammation and physical removal of pollen from the nasal passages and living environment.