Tricks for Beating Spring Allergies Make an Appointment Ask a Question Search Conditions Spring allergies can cause a runny nose, watery and itchy eyes, sneezing and sore throats. Prevent these symptoms by taking allergy medicine before symptoms start, and by using these tips to keep spring allergy symptoms under control. Cool WiselyUse an air conditioner instead of a window or attic fan to cool your house. Prevent MoldsAvoid humidifiers and swamp coolers, because they can add molds into your home. Clean UpWhen you come in from outside, remove clothing and wash or shower to remove pollen from your skin and hair. Also wash your pets after they’ve been outside to reduce pollen they bring in to the home. Nasal WashUsing a saline nasal wash can improve breathing by rinsing pollen, dust and other debris out of your nose and loosening thick mucus. Block WindUse a scarf or mask over your mouth and nose to prevent breathing in pollen and dust on windy days. Allergy TriggersSpring pollen allergies are from trees and grasses; weeds bring summer allergies. Molds can be a problem during mid-summer in warmer states and year-round in southern and western states. Garden CarefullyAvoid breathing in fertilizer and pesticide chemicals. Keep away from piles of moldy leaves and branches. Have someone else mow the lawn. Wear an allergy mask outdoors to reduce exposure to allergens. Count PollensWatch local pollen counts. Stay inside during afternoons and evenings when pollen counts are highest. Close WindowsKeep home and car windows closed when pollen counts are high and during sleep. Take MedicationConsistently take doctor-recommended medicines and treatments. This information has been reviewed and approved by Ann Mullen, AE-C, CNS, MSN, RN (March 2019).