The new wave of effective cures for seasonal allergies

Reducing triggers is also important. Allergists recommend keeping windows closed, using an air purifier, and wearing sunglasses or a mask when you go outside. Washing your hands, face and eye area – and, ideally, showering, including hair – when you come in, especially before going to sleep at night, can also help, says Cohen: “If you’re sleeping in that pollen on the pillowcase, you can imagine it’s not good to breathe in.” 

Still, particularly if you suffer from severe symptoms, there’s only so much reduction that can be done. And given that walks, cycling to work or throwing around a ball outside can be everyday pleasures that enhance our quality of life – especially as the weather warms – it’s not always optimal, either.

“We’ve got very effective treatments for the majority of patients,” Durham says. “The message is that it’s trivialised, and people don’t understand how to treat it properly.”

* Amanda Ruggeri is a journalist who explores the science, psychology and history of the ideas we take for granted. Her upcoming book on sleep will be published by BenBella in summer 2027. She is @mandyruggeri on Instagram, Threads and TikTok.

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