Spring Pollen and Allergies: What to Do When Symptoms Worsen?

By Dre Aurélia Nha-Huyen Nguyen Gouez, family physician and medical director of French origin living in Quebec since 2016.

Every spring, it's the same thing: the buds bloom... and so do the allergies. Repeated sneezing, stuffy nose, red eyes, fatigue... In Quebec, pollen season often begins as early as mid-April and can last until August depending on the species. But what should you do when symptoms become unbearable? When antihistamines are no longer enough? Should you seek a consultation? And at what point?

Why do allergies worsen in the spring?

The primary culprits are:

• Tree pollens (birch, maple, alder...) starting in April.

• Then grasses (tall grass, hay...) from May to June.

• And finally ragweed, dreaded in August.

Repeated exposure can lead to stronger sensitization over the years. Other aggravating factors include:

• Air pollution.

• A family history of allergies.

• Stress, which decreases tolerance to symptoms.

• Inadequate or insufficient treatment.

When should you seek a consultation?

You should consult a doctor if:

• Your symptoms persist despite over-the-counter antihistamines.

• You have difficulty breathing, a chronic cough, or a feeling of chest tightness.

• You experience recurring sinusitis or ENT infections.

• Your eyes are very swollen, or your vision is blurred.

• Your quality of life is impaired (sleep, concentration, sports).

What can your doctor do?

During a medical consultation, your doctor will:

• Confirm whether it is indeed allergic rhinitis or another pathology (asthma, infection...).

• Propose an adapted treatment: prescription antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, eye drops, or even bronchodilators if asthma is associated.

• Provide personalized avoidance advice.

• Prescribe an allergology assessment if necessary.

• Consider desensitization (immunotherapy) in certain cases.

Practical tips for living better with allergies

• Follow local pollen alerts (e.g., Pollens Québec).

• Close windows during critical hours (morning).

• Shower and change clothes after being outside.

• Avoid drying your laundry outdoors.

• Regularly clean your air conditioner or install a HEPA filter.

Key Takeaways

Seasonal allergies are not an inevitability. When they become overwhelming, do not hesitate to seek a consultation. Proper treatment and a few adjustments can truly improve your daily life.

At Allodocteur.ca, our doctors can see you quickly via home doctor visits or telemedicine, even on weekends.

Book an appointment with a home doctor in Montreal at www.allodocteur.ca