Stop Dreading Spring: Your Guide to Allergy Relief in NYC

Spring is in the air. And that means a lot of pollen is, too. If you get seasonal allergies, you’re probably not looking forward to the coming season.

As trees and other plants release more pollen, you might start to feel the telltale signs. An itchy throat. A runny nose. Sneezing. 

If all of that sounds familiar, come see Matthew W. Shawl, MD, and our team at our New York City office in Union Square. Dr. Shawl can help you tackle your allergies — and any other issues that arise with them, like sinus infections. Our goal is to help you enjoy spring again. 

Finding effective treatment for spring allergies

Effective relief from spring allergies requires a two-pronged approach: medication paired with lifestyle changes. 

You have plenty of options in the medication category. Spring allergies typically respond to antihistamines, which come in different forms. If a cetirizine like ZYRTEC® doesn’t work for you, try a loratadine like Claritin®. 

You can also find over-the-counter medication that treats specific symptoms. If your eyes itch or get watery, antihistamine eye drops can probably help. 

Take the medication as prescribed. If it works for 24 hours, for example, take it daily. Experts recommend starting now, before your symptoms kick into high gear. 

Also, work to minimize your pollen exposure. Keep your windows closed at home and at work. Be mindful of how much pollen you’re bringing into the house, too. If you walk through Central Park, for example, try to take a shower shortly after you get home. 

For most people, medication paired with some short-lived lifestyle modifications keeps serious symptoms at bay. If you’re still struggling, it might not just be springtime allergies. 

When you might need care beyond allergy medication

Dr. Shawl helps you figure out if you’re really dealing with allergies or if it’s something more. When the treatment for your spring allergies doesn’t fully alleviate your symptoms, it might be more than a seasonal issue.

If you continually deal with one nostril that’s stopped up, for example, you could have a deviated septum. Or if you can’t seem to get your symptoms under control, your allergies might be contributing to sinus infections. 

Fortunately, Dr. Shawl can help with all of this. He specializes in treating your sinus infection or deviated septum. He’s here to help you breathe easily, not just this spring but throughout the year.

If your spring allergies don’t respond to over-the-counter medications and lifestyle adjustments, come see Dr. Shawl. He can help you figure out what’s really going on. To book an appointment, call us or book your visit online today.