The Spring Allergy: What Causes Sneezing and Runny Eyes

An early taste of spring for much of the eastern United States is unwelcome news for those who struggle with seasonal allergies. Spring allergies are also known as hay fever and seasonal rhinitis. At some point during the year, an estimated 50 to 60 million people in the U.S. (as much as 20 percent of the population) struggle with allergies.

The culprit behind spring allergy symptoms is typically pollen. Trees, grasses, and weeds release these tiny grains into the air to fertilize other plants. When they get into the nose of someone who’s allergic, they send the body’s defenses haywire.If you sneeze and cough during certain times of the year, you may have seasonal allergies. Common symptoms of spring allergies also include runny nose, itchy eyes, scratchy throat, dark circles under the eyes.

However, occasional allergies aren’t something you just have to live with. To deal with the pollen you should do the following things:

• Wear sunglasses and a hat when outdoors
• Keep windows closed
• Keep your HVAC system clean