If you’re reaching for tissues again this year as allergy season rolls in, you’re definitely not alone. Springtime may bring blooming flowers and sunshine—but for many of us, it also means runny noses, itchy eyes, and endless sneezing fits. The culprits are airborne allergens like pollen, mold, and mildew.
“Climate change and allergies are more connected than most people realize,” says Dr. John Boyle, an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist at Wilmington Health in Wilmington, N.C.
As our planet warms, plants tend to pollinate earlier—and for longer stretches. That means allergy season starts sooner and sticks around longer. Combine that with increased carbon dioxide in the air, and pollen levels can skyrocket.
Why Allergies Can Feel Worse As We Age
Seasonal allergies aren’t just annoying—they can be especially tough on older adults. About 5% to 10% of people over 65 experience allergy symptoms. While severe allergic reactions like anaphylaxis are rare and usually triggered by food or insect stings, you should still be aware of them.
As Dr. Boyle explains, aging brings natural changes to the immune system and the structure of the nose. Cartilage can weaken over time, and that can mean more nasal obstruction,” he says. “When that happens, the nose has a tougher time clearing out mucus, and that can bring on more intense symptoms.
For those managing chronic conditions like COPD, seasonal allergies can make breathing more difficult. And medications used to treat other health issues may affect how allergy treatments work—or even limit your options. That’s why finding the right approach with your doctor is so important.
3 Ways to Breathe Easier This Allergy Season
Here are a few tips to help manage your symptoms and enjoy more of the season:
1. Try simple ways to reduce exposure.
While the research is still growing, environmental control strategies are easy to put in place and may help reduce your exposure to allergens. Dr. Boyle recommends:
- Checking local pollen forecasts.
- Staying indoors on high-pollen days.
- Keeping windows closed during peak pollen hours.
- Showering and changing clothes after spending time outside.
- Wearing glasses or using nasal filters to help block allergens.
2. Medications can make a big difference.
Dr. Boyle recommends a topical nasal steroid like Flonase, Nasonex, Rhinocort, or Nasacort. These help block the chemical signals that trigger allergy symptoms.
Newer antihistamines like Claritin, Zyrtec, Allegra, and Xyzal can also work well, and they tend to cause fewer side effects. However, especially if you are a senior, you might want to avoid older antihistamines such as Benadryl and Chlortab because they’re more likely to cause drowsiness and other unwanted effects.
Even though many allergy medications are available over the counter and considered safe, it’s always wise to check in with your provider, especially if you’re taking other prescriptions.
3. Don’t hesitate to see a specialist.
If over-the-counter options aren’t cutting it, consider talking with an allergist or ENT doctor who has experience treating allergies. These specialists can help identify your triggers and may recommend additional treatments like:
- Prescription medications
- Allergy shots (immunotherapy)
- Sublingual drops or tablets (taken under the tongue)
These treatments aren’t right for everyone, but they can provide long-term relief for many people with persistent symptoms. If you have questions, get in touch with the friendly team at Wilmington Health.
If spring allergies are slowing you down, your Wilmington Health provider can help you find a treatment plan that works for your unique needs. To speak with Dr. Boyle or another member of our caring team, contact Wilmington Health today.
Dr. John Boyle is an ENT expert at Wilmington Health, trained at Cornell, SUNY Upstate, and Eastern Virginia Medical School. He’s known for his thoughtful, patient-focused care and enjoys sailing, hiking, baking, and playing guitar and piano in his spare time.