Myths About Seasonal Allergies—Busted

Seasonal allergies affect millions of people each year—but for something so common, there’s still a lot of confusion surrounding them. Misunderstandings can lead to unnecessary suffering or missed opportunities for relief. Below are five myths about seasonal allergies and the facts that can help you manage your symptoms more effectively.

Myth: You only get allergies as a kid.
Fact: Seasonal allergies can begin at any age. Adults in their 30s, 40s, or even later can develop allergies for the first time, especially after moving to a new area or experiencing changes in the immune system.

If you’ve started sneezing, coughing, or feeling congested each spring, it might be seasonal allergies, even if you’ve never had them before.

Myth: Flowers are the main cause of spring allergies.
Fact: While it’s easy to blame blooming flowers, they’re usually not the problem. Most flowers have heavy, sticky pollen that doesn’t travel far and rarely causes allergic reactions.

The real culprits are trees, grasses, and weeds that release lightweight pollen into the air. These pollens are easily carried by the wind—right into your nose, eyes, and lungs. Common spring offenders include oak, maple, birch, and cedar trees.

Myth: Rain always helps wash pollen away.
Fact: A good rain can temporarily reduce airborne pollen, but symptoms don’t always improve—and they can even get worse.

After rain, plants often release more pollen, and the added moisture can increase mold growth—a common allergy trigger. For some people, allergy symptoms can spike after a rainy day.

Myth: Moving to a new region will cure your allergies.
Fact: Relocating may bring short-term relief, but it’s rarely a long-term solution. Most parts of the country have their own set of pollen and allergens, and your immune system can develop sensitivity over time.

Instead of trying to outrun your allergies, it’s more effective to find a treatment plan that works for you where you are.

Myth: If allergy meds don’t work, there’s nothing else you can do
Fact: If over-the-counter options aren’t cutting it, there are still many ways to get relief.

Allergy specialists can identify your specific triggers and create a personalized treatment plan. Prescription medications or immunotherapy (allergy shots or drops) can provide lasting improvement, especially for those with more severe or persistent symptoms.

Managing Seasonal Allergies Starts with the Facts
Understanding the truth about seasonal allergies is the first step toward feeling better. If you’re struggling with symptoms that aren’t improving, our allergy specialists can help. Often there are a mix of different allergens contributing to our patients' symptoms. Allergy testing can help us tailor medical therapy to specific triggers so that treatment can be as effective as possible. Schedule an appointment today to find a treatment plan that works for you and get back to enjoying the season.

Angie Roling, DNP
Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology Department
Medical Associates Clinic

Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology Department