Spring is the season when trees grow their new leaves and flowers spring out. Animals come back from hibernation and migration, and the sky showers down onto the ground. However, it is also a time of snivels, sneezes, and itchy eyes. According to Pollen.com, “over 67 million people suffer from allergies, and of those 67 million, 81% say they are allergic to pollen.” That roughly estimates to 54 million people in the United States that have seasonal allergies.

Allergic reactions are caused when, “The immune system mistakenly sees the pollen as a danger and releases antibodies that attack the allergens,” according to WebMD. As a result, the antibodies cause reactions such as a runny nose, itchy eye, and sneezing. These reactions cause discomfort to the individuals who have the allergy. Junior Matthew Schloss experienced and believes that, Spring allergies are a real bother when I’m trying to do everyday activities. It’s just the worst part of spring, being disrupted by allergy symptoms.”

There are ways to control allergic discomfort. Reader’s Digest suggests methods such as reducing stress, regularly taking allergy medicine, and cleaning bedrooms. A stressed individual will be prone to being affected, not just by allergies, but by any sickness due to a vulnerable immune system. Taking steps for improving personal well-being will help protect the body from malicious harms. Regularly taking allergy medications can suppress allergic reactions temporarily. Lastly, by maintaining a clean bedroom will reduce the amount of allergens while sleeping. Washing bedsheets, pillows, and wiping mattresses will all help towards a good night’s sleep.

The most general description of allergies to most people are “pollen allergies.” However, not many realize that there are multiple types of pollen, and it could be just a few of those types that affect them. The most common types of pollen, according to Healthline.com, are birch pollen, oak pollen, grass pollen, and ragweed pollen. Each of these pollens have specific characteristics to them that make them different from the others. Birch pollen is usually more active in the spring. Oak pollen is also active in the spring, and is considered to be mildly allergenic than the others. Grass pollen is active in the summer and is the “most severe and difficult-to-treat.” Ragweed pollen is active through late spring to mid-fall, and is capable of surviving a mild winter.

By knowing more about seasonal allergies, that knowledge can help avoid severe allergic reactions. Maintaining good health and practicing treatment techniques are a key to stroll past this allergy season with relief.