As flowers bloom and pollen fills the air, many people experience a rise in allergy and asthma symptoms, like congestion, itchy eyes, coughing, and flare-ups.

We’re here to help. On this page, you’ll find practical tips and must-know strategies to help you keep safe this pollen season.

What Is Pollen and Why Is It a Problem For People With Allergies?

Pollen is a fine powder released by trees, grasses, and weeds to fertilize other plants. While it plays an important role in nature, it can be a major trigger for people with asthma and allergies.

These seasonal allergies, also known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis, can cause sneezing, itchy eyes, nasal congestion, and more.

About 80% of people with asthma also have allergies because both conditions affect the airways. When someone with allergic asthma breathes in pollen, it can cause inflammation and swelling in the airways, leading to sneezing, itchy eyes, wheezing, coughing, and even serious asthma flare-ups.

How to Reduce Pollen Exposure

While you can’t eliminate pollen from the air, you can take steps to limit your exposure. Try these simple but effective strategies:

• Stay indoors during high pollen periods.
  • Limit outdoor time, especially in the early morning when pollen levels are typically at their highest. Check daily forecasts using trusted sources like The Weather Network or The Weather Channel.
• Keep windows and doors closed.
  • Prevent pollen from entering your home or car—especially on dry, windy days. Use air conditioning if needed.
• Shower and change clothes after being outside.
  • Pollen sticks to your skin, hair, and clothing. Rinsing off and wearing clean clothes can help prevent it from spreading inside your home.
• Use air purifiers and HEPA filters indoors.
  • HEPA filters trap pollen and other allergens. If possible, use them in your home.
• Avoid drying laundry outside.
  • Pollen can settle on clothes, sheets, and towels hung outdoors. Use an indoor drying rack or dryer during allergy season.

Staying Safe: Managing Asthma and Allergies During Pollen Season

Have and Use Your Asthma Action Plan

Your Asthma Action Plan is your personalized guide to managing symptoms. It outlines what to do daily and during worsening symptoms or emergencies. If you don’t have one yet, speak to your healthcare provider about getting one in place. Download your Action Plan Now.

Know and Use Your Asthma & Allergy Medications

Even with precautions, pollen exposure can still happen. The right medications can help you manage your symptoms effectively:

Asthma Medications

Controller Medication

Use daily as prescribed, even when you feel well. These medications help reduce airway inflammation over time and prevent symptoms from starting.

Reliever (Rescue) Medication

Carry your reliever inhaler with you at all times. It provides quick relief for sudden symptoms like wheezing, coughing, or shortness of breath.

Allergy Medications

• • • Antihistamines (Allergy pills): Help relieve sneezing, itching, and runny nose.
    • Nasal sprays: Reduce swelling in nasal passages and improve breathing.
    • Eye drops: Relieve itchy, red, or watery eyes.
    • Allergy shots or tablets (Immunotherapy): Long-term treatment that helps your body build tolerance to pollen and other allergens.

Be Prepared for Emergencies

Always have your reliever inhaler with you in case of an asthma emergency. If you use your inhaler and symptoms don’t improve, or get worse, call 911 immediately. It’s always better to be safe and get help right away.

Need Support This Pollen Season? We’re Here for You

If you have questions about managing asthma or allergies, or need help understanding your symptoms, call our Asthma and Allergy HelpLine. Our team can help you explore your options and feel more confident this season.

With the right plan, you can enjoy the season!

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