From Sneezing to Smiling: One Woman’s Journey with Seasonal Allergies

Author’s note: ‘Susan’ is a composite of several adult patients I have treated over the years for seasonal allergies. No confidential information is revealed.

Seasonal allergies, also known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis, occur when the immune system overreacts to allergens such as pollen from trees, grasses, or weeds, which are more prevalent during certain times of the year. Common symptoms include sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy eyes, and a runny nose—issues that can significantly affect daily functioning and overall well-being. For many individuals, these symptoms disrupt sleep, reduce concentration, and interfere with work or recreational activities, decreasing both productivity and quality of life.

Susan is a 58-year-old woman whose energy and love of the outdoors keep her exceptionally active. An avid gardener, she delights in coaxing perennials to bloom each spring and tending her vegetable beds well into the summer. I’ve often seen her strolling through tree-lined paths on crisp autumn mornings, marveling at the changing leaves. Despite her active lifestyle, Susan has found that seasonal allergy flare-ups in the spring have gradually derailed her favorite pastimes.

What began as occasional sniffles and watery eyes has escalated into daily sneezing fits, a persistently runny nose, and relentless itchy eyes that seem to strike at the worst moments—like when Susan is kneeling over her begonias or enjoying the fresh air on a neighborhood walk. Fatigue soon followed, as nights spent battling nasal congestion left her tossing and turning instead of drifting off to sleep. Mornings have become a struggle, with grogginess and poor concentration clouding her work and hobbies. Faced with these unwelcome symptoms, Susan decided it was time to seek a more effective way to reclaim her outdoor adventures and restful nights.

Given Susan’s pattern of seasonal allergic rhinitis and her preference for a non-sedating option that would allow her to maintain her active lifestyle, I decided to prescribe loratadine, a second-generation antihistamine known for its effectiveness and low risk of drowsiness. We discussed how loratadine works by blocking histamine—the substance responsible for her allergy symptoms—and reviewed the recommended once-daily 10 mg dosage. I also explained potential side effects, including mild headache and dry mouth, though these are uncommon. Susan appreciated that loratadine would not interfere with her daily routines and felt confident about starting the treatment after our conversation.

In addition to prescribing loratadine, I provided Susan with practical guidance to help her manage her seasonal allergies more effectively. I advised her to begin taking the medication a few days before allergy season typically starts in her area, as starting early can help prevent symptoms from escalating. We also discussed environmental control strategies, such as using a high-efficiency air purifier at home and keeping windows closed on high-pollen days to limit indoor allergen exposure. I recommended that she avoid outdoor activities during peak pollen times—typically early morning and windy days—when possible. Lastly, I emphasized the importance of consistency with her medication. I explained that taking loratadine daily, rather than only when symptoms flare up, would provide the most reliable relief throughout the allergy season.

Through her experience managing seasonal allergies, Susan picked up several helpful strategies that greatly improved her day-to-day comfort. She learned to start taking her loratadine before the first signs of allergy season, which helped prevent symptoms from taking hold in the first place. At home, she began using an air purifier to reduce indoor allergens. She habitually checked daily pollen forecasts to avoid going outside during peak times, especially in the early morning. She kept her windows closed on days with high pollen counts to limit exposure. Most importantly, she discovered that taking her medication consistently—rather than only when she felt unwell—was key to staying ahead of her symptoms and maintaining the active lifestyle she loves.

Susan’s story is a powerful reminder that seasonal allergy symptoms don’t have to be simply endured. With the right approach, relief is possible—without sacrificing the activities you enjoy. If you or someone you know struggles with sneezing, congestion, or itchy eyes during allergy season, consider discussing safe and effective treatment options with your healthcare provider. While loratadine worked well for Susan, other solutions—such as intranasal corticosteroid sprays, alternative antihistamines, or combination therapies—may be more appropriate depending on individual needs. The key is not to suffer in silence; with guidance from a medical professional, you can find a treatment plan that works for you.