Allergy
Spring Allergies: Symptoms, Testing & Treatment
Spring in New England brings longer days and blooming trees — and, for millions of people, a fresh wave of sneezing, congestion, and itchy eyes. If your symptoms return at the same time every year, seasonal allergies are a likely cause. The good news: with the right testing and a plan built around your specific triggers, most people can get lasting relief.
What triggers spring allergy symptoms?
Spring symptoms are driven largely by tree pollen. The most common offenders in our region include:
- Oak
- Maple
- Birch
- Cedar
Because these fine particles are everywhere outdoors, simply staying inside on high-pollen days is rarely enough on its own.
Recognizing the symptoms
Allergy symptoms often look like a lingering cold — but they tend to last longer and follow a seasonal pattern. Watch for:
- Sneezing and a runny or stuffy nose
- Itchy, watery eyes
- Post-nasal drip and a scratchy throat
- Sinus pressure or facial fullness
- Fatigue and trouble sleeping
“If symptoms keep coming back every spring — or over-the-counter medicines aren’t keeping up — it’s worth identifying exactly what you’re reacting to.”
Why allergy testing matters
Over-the-counter antihistamines can take the edge off, but they don’t tell you what you’re allergic to. Allergy testing pinpoints your specific triggers so your care team can build a plan that targets the cause — not just the symptoms.
Treatment that fits your life
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Depending on your triggers and how much your symptoms affect daily life, your plan may combine several of the options below.
| Approach | What it does |
|---|---|
| Nasal steroid sprays | Reduce inflammation and congestion at the source |
| Antihistamines | Block the reaction that causes sneezing and itching |
| Allergy immunotherapy | Gradually retrains the immune system for long-term relief |
Frequently asked questions
How long do spring allergies usually last?+
Tree-pollen season typically runs from early spring into early summer, but the exact timing shifts year to year with the weather. If your symptoms persist well beyond the season, another trigger may be involved.
Is it allergies or a cold?+
Colds usually clear within a week to ten days and can come with a fever. Allergies tend to linger, return seasonally, and cause more itching of the eyes, nose, and throat.
Is allergy testing painful?+
Most testing is quick and well tolerated. Skin testing uses tiny, shallow pricks, and your care team will walk you through what to expect beforehand.
