Experts Advise Early Prep for Worsening Spring Allergies

Climate change is extending pollen seasons and increasing severity of symptoms, requiring a proactive approach.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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As climate change extends pollen seasons and increases allergen levels, experts recommend a three-pronged approach to managing spring allergies: avoidance, medication, and long-term treatments like allergy shots. Starting preventative measures before symptoms begin is key for the 50 million Americans who suffer from seasonal allergies.

Why it matters

Allergy seasons are becoming longer and more intense due to rising temperatures and carbon dioxide levels, which encourage earlier pollen release and higher pollen production. This means allergy sufferers can expect more severe and prolonged symptoms in the coming years, underscoring the importance of taking proactive steps to manage allergies.

The details

According to allergist Dr. Sandra Hong, effective allergy management involves three core strategies: avoidance, medication, and long-term treatments. Avoidance includes practical steps like keeping windows closed, changing clothes after being outdoors, and using HEPA filters. Medication such as nasal steroid sprays and oral antihistamines can provide immediate symptom relief. Long-term solutions like allergy shots and tablets can desensitize the immune system over time. An allergist can create a personalized treatment plan based on individual triggers.

  • Experts recommend starting nasal steroid sprays before spring allergy symptoms typically begin.

The players

Dr. Sandra Hong

An allergist with Cleveland Clinic who specializes in seasonal allergy management.

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What they’re saying

“When it comes to seasonal allergies, I ask patients to focus on these three things: avoidance, medication, and long-term treatments.”

— Dr. Sandra Hong, Allergist

What’s next

An allergist can determine if allergy shots or other long-term treatments are appropriate for your specific needs.

The takeaway

By taking a proactive, three-pronged approach to managing allergies - through avoidance, medication, and long-term treatments - allergy sufferers can gain better control over their symptoms and enjoy the warmer months, despite the worsening effects of climate change on pollen levels.