For many people across the Southeastern United States, spring means a lot of things: baseball season, beach vacations, backyard barbecues and pollen. Pollen, the yellow powder that plants produce for reproduction, is a very common nuisance here in the south. But why is pollen so bad in the southeast, as opposed to other parts of the country?
There are several reasons for this. In The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA)’s 2025 Allergy Capitals report, they identify the top 10 allergy capitals in the U.S., the majority being in the southeast, Memphis was 5th; Raleigh placed 7th; and Greenville, South Carolina, and Greensboro, North Carolina, placing 9th and 10th, respectively. The report goes on to discuss that the first pollen to appear across the U.S. is tree pollen. Most tree pollen is produced from February to April, but here in the south, trees may start producing pollen as early as December or January. Then, factor in grass pollen, which is present from April to early June, then ragweed pollen in August, which peaks in mid-September…. That’s a lot of pollen.
According to the AAFA, climate change means that pollen is being produced earlier, and it can cause worse reactions. Yikes. Luckily, there are many remedies to help you if you’re struggling with seasonal allergies. Of course, before you start any new medications or medical treatments, talk to your doctor first– they know you and your health the best. Knowing what products exist to help with seasonal allergies can help make that discussion easier and smoother.
The simplest thing you can do, no medicine required, is reduce your exposure to pollen. If you work outside or spend a lot of time in areas where there may be a high pollen count, change your clothes and take a shower to reduce the risk of spreading pollen around your dorm, apartment or home. Monitor the pollen count in your area (the Weather Channel has a 15-day allergy forecast on their website), and avoid going outside if you can help it when the pollen count is high.
Nasal saline spray is a great non-medicated product to help clear mucus and allergens out of your nose when used as directed. Corticosteroid nasal sprays, like Flonase, help reduce swelling in the nose; they’re the most effective for allergic rhinitis, aka hay fever. Long-acting, non-drowsy antihistamines like Allegra or Claritin help with sneezing, as well as an itchy nose or eyes. Decongestants are also an option, but they’re usually best used in short periods and can cause issues for individuals with high blood pressure.
Discuss with your doctor before considering decongestants. If you’re really struggling with your seasonal allergies, it may be wise to see an allergist for allergy testing. Allergists can also prescribe specific medications if you’re suffering from issues a typical drugstore allergy remedy can’t fix. Pollen may be annoying, but it means we’re that much closer to the end of the semester, even if we’re sniffling and sneezing our way through it.
