Allergy season in Florida: What to expect and how to manage your symptoms

While spring in Florida is a beautiful time of year, the season brings an increase in seasonal allergies due to higher pollen counts and airborne irritants. If you find yourself sneezing, rubbing your eyes or constantly congested, you’re likely not alone. Fortunately, MD Now® urgent care is here to help you find relief this allergy season.

Let’s break down what to expect in the spring months, how to manage seasonal allergy symptoms and when it might be time to visit your nearest MD Now location.

When is allergy season in Florida?

Unlike other parts of the country with more varied seasonal climates, Florida’s allergy season can start earlier — and last longer. That said, people may experience allergy symptoms nearly all year long. Thanks to our warm, humid climate, pollen-producing plants often release allergens throughout the year — as early as late January or February, peaking during the spring months of March through May. Some general guidelines include:

• Tree pollen usually spikes in early spring
• Grass pollen increases in late spring and early summer
• Weed pollen tends to rise in the fall

Knowing when allergy season begins in your area can help you prepare in advance, especially if your symptoms return like clockwork each year.

Common seasonal allergy symptoms

Seasonal allergies — also known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis — occur when your immune system overreacts to allergens like pollen, dust, or mold. These symptoms can range from mildly annoying to seriously disruptive.

Here are the most common seasonal allergy symptoms:

• Sneezing
• Stuffy or runny nose
• Itchy, red or watery eyes
• Itchy throat or ears
• Postnasal drip
• Coughing
• Headaches or fatigue (especially from poor sleep)

These symptoms can sometimes be mistaken for a cold or sinus infection, so if they persist for more than a week or two and return seasonally, allergies are likely the culprit.

Allergy medicines

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to the best allergy medication, but we've curated a list of over-the-counter and prescription options that can provide relief.

Antihistamines

These are among the most popular forms of allergy medicine, helping block histamines — the chemical behind allergy symptoms. Common options include:

• Loratadine (Claritin)
• Cetirizine (Zyrtec)
• Fexofenadine (Allegra)

Nasal Sprays

Nasal corticosteroids like fluticasone (Flonase) and budesonide (Rhinocort) help relieve congestion and inflammation. They work best when used consistently during allergy season.

Decongestants

Oral decongestants like pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) or nasal sprays like oxymetazoline (Afrin) can temporarily reduce swelling in your nasal passages — but shouldn’t be used long term.

Other Remedies

• Antihistamine eye drops for itchy eyes
• Saline nasal sprays to rinse away allergens
• Air purifiers or HEPA filters to clean your indoor air

If you’re unsure which option is right for you, a visit to MD Now can help determine the most effective treatment plan.

Tips to manage allergy season in Florida

In addition to taking the right allergy medicine, simple lifestyle changes can go a long way in reducing your exposure:

• Keep windows closed and use air conditioning when pollen counts are high
• Change clothes and shower after being outside
• Vacuum frequently with a HEPA filter
• Check daily pollen counts and plan your outdoor time wisely
• Don’t dry laundry outdoors, where it can collect pollen

When to Seek Medical Care

If your seasonal allergy symptoms aren’t improving or you’re experiencing additional symptoms like sinus pressure, persistent headaches or worsening fatigue, it may be time to see a medical provider.

At MD Now urgent care, we offer comprehensive, high-quality care with no appointment necessary. Our team can evaluate your symptoms, recommend the best allergy medication for your needs, and rule out other causes like sinus infections or the common cold.

With extended hours and convenient locations across Florida, MD Now makes it easy to get back to feeling like yourself — so you can enjoy spring season without the sneezing.