Seasonal allergies affect people only during certain times of the year. Symptoms appear most often during the spring, summer and fall and usually subside during the winter. Grasses, weeds and trees release pollen that – along with molds – is the most common source of symptoms. These symptoms include sneezing, itchy and watery eyes, scratchy throat, runny nose, skin rashes and hives.

The most common seasonal allergy is seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR), also known as hay fever. SAR is caused by an airborne allergen that occurs only at certain times of the year. Other seasonal allergies include the eye conditions allergic conjunctivitis and vernal conjunctivitis, and the sinus condition allergic sinusitis (frequently a result of allergic rhinitis).

The severity of seasonal allergic rhinitis varies by seasons and geographies. Seasonal allergies are most likely to peak in the spring and summer, but the exact nature and timing of symptoms will depend upon which substance triggers an individual’s allergies. For example, those who are allergic to tree pollen are most likely to suffer symptoms in the spring, and those with ragweed allergies will react most strongly during the summer and fall.

A physician often can pinpoint specific allergens by performing allergy tests. Once allergens have been identified, the patient will be urged to avoid exposure to those allergens as much as possible. If avoidance fails to curb symptoms, allergy medications or allergy shots may be prescribed.

Other allergies related to seasonal allergens include:

• Indoor allergies. Molds, pollens and other seasonal allergens are easily tracked indoors through normal human activity. Therefore, it is common that seasonal allergens become indoor allergens.
  
  
• Cosmetic allergies. In sensitive people, allergic skin rashes can be caused by contact with products designed for seasonal use, such as sunscreen or bug spray.
  
  
• Insect allergies. Exposure to most insects capable of triggering allergic reactions in sensitive people occurs seasonally. These include bees, wasps and fire ants.