Still congested during the Summer? Learn How to Get Relief!
- Kitty Woo Ham, FNP
- Jul 30
- 4 min read
Updated: Jul 31
Summer often brings sunshine, outdoor fun, and warm weather. But for many people, it also means dealing with allergy symptoms that just won’t quit.
If you find yourself sneezing, congested, or itchy even in the middle of summer, you’re not alone. Allergies don’t take a break just because the seasons change.
Understanding why summer allergies happen and how to manage them can help you enjoy the season without constant discomfort.
Why Do Allergies Persist in Summer?
Many people assume allergies only flare up in spring, but summer has its own triggers. Common summer allergens include:
Pollen from grasses and weeds: Grasses are a major culprit, releasing pollen during summer then we get weeds in the fall.
Mold spores: Warm and humid conditions encourage mold growth outdoors and indoors. Many people don't realize that mold irritation increases when we eat and drink fermented and yeasty foods (ie bread, cheese, alcohol, coffee, tea, and leftovers). These are common foods people eat everyday which can increase allergy symptoms and inflammation inside the body.
Dust mites: These tiny creatures thrive in warm environments and can worsen symptoms.
Insect bites: Some people react to bites or stings with allergic responses.
Pollen counts can be surprisingly high in summer, especially in areas with lots of grass or weeds. Mold spores increase after rain, in damp places like basements and gardens, and with high humidity. Eating and drinking fermented and yeasty foods daily increases inflammation due to mold. Dust mites multiply in bedding and upholstery, which can worsen indoor allergy symptoms.
Common Summer Allergy Symptoms
Summer allergies often cause symptoms that overlap with other illnesses, making them tricky to identify. Watch for:
Nasal congestion and runny nose
Sneezing fits
Itchy, watery eyes
Scratchy throat or cough
Fatigue from poor sleep due to congestion
Skin rashes or hives from insect bites or contact with plants
If these symptoms persist for weeks or worsen outdoors, allergies are likely the cause. Unlike a cold, allergy symptoms don’t usually include fever or body aches.
Common Allergy Symptoms Less Talked About
Allergy symptoms can also be tricky to identify due to them being vague and more general (especially with mold allergies):
Itchy skin without rash (AKA Urticaria)
Foggy Headedness
Headaches or head pressure
Eye pressure
Decreased focus and attention
Anxiety, Irritability
Depression
Bloating, Stomach upset
Constipation and/or Diarrhea
Gut dysfunction
Swollen joints
Swollen lymph nodes
How to Manage Summer Allergies
Allergy symptom prevention can make a big difference in keeping you well. Here are practical steps to improvement management:
Get Allergy Tested to find out exactly what you're allergic. Skin testing not only checks for what you're allergic to but measures how severe of a reaction you get. From there, you can get a personalized treatment plan.
Check local pollen forecasts daily to plan outdoor activities when counts are lower.
Keep windows closed during high pollen times, usually mid-morning and early evening.
Use air conditioning with clean filters to reduce indoor pollen and mold.
Shower and change clothes after spending time outside to remove pollen, especially before going to bed to avoid breathing in and sleeping with allergens.
Wash bedding weekly in hot water to kill dust mites.
Trim grass and weeds around your home to reduce pollen sources. Wear a mask to avoid breathing in pollen while doing this.
Use a dehumidifier and/or air purifier in damp areas to prevent mold growth.
If you have pets that go outdoors, wipe their fur when they come inside to avoid bringing pollen indoors.
Treatment Options for Summer Allergies
Managing symptoms often requires a combination of lifestyle changes and treatments. Some options include:
Allergy immunotherapy: Customized Allergy shots or drop can build tolerance over time, from mild to severe cases. Perfect for anyone wanting to teach their body to become immune to allergens.
Over-the-counter antihistamines: These reduce sneezing, itching, and runny nose.
Nasal sprays: Sprays that reduce inflammation and congestion.
Decongestants: Short-term use (not recommended more than 1-2 days) can relieve nasal stuffiness but avoid prolonged use.
Allergy Eye drops: Help soothe itchy, watery eyes.
Always follow package instructions and consult a healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. Medications often cause side effects like dryness and may cause drowsiness or interact with other treatments. There are supplemental and herbal options that have minimal to no side effects and help work along with the body, not against its normal functions. Work with me to determine exactly what your body needs and get a personalized treatment plan.
When to Seek Professional Help From A Provider?
If your allergy symptoms interfere with daily life or do not improve with home care, seek medical advice. A provider specializing in allergy can:
Confirm the allergy triggers through testing
Prescribe stronger medications if needed
Recommend immunotherapy for long-term relief
Check for other conditions that mimic allergies
Early treatment can prevent complications like sinus infections, asthma flare-ups, bronchitis, and pneumonia.
Summer allergies can feel frustrating, especially when you expect to enjoy the outdoors.
By understanding what causes these symptoms and taking simple steps to reduce exposure, you can keep congestion and irritation under control.
Use local pollen forecasts, keep your home clean, and consider appropriate treatments to stay comfortable all summer long. If symptoms persist, a healthcare provider can help tailor a plan that fits your needs. Don’t let allergies steal your fun—feel better now and stay well all year round.
Don't forget to check out upcoming events to learn more on health optimization and achieving lifelong wellness. RSVP through the links below. Participants get discounts on services, such as Allergy Testing, Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT, AKA Allergy Drops), Holistic Initial Evaluations, and More!
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