You're hydrating regularly and getting ahead of your stress [1], but your headaches won't quit — seasonal allergies may be the one trigger you haven't outsmarted.
According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology [2], throbbing headaches that occur over the sinus area of your face (your cheekbones, eyes, bridge of the nose, and forehead) or on one side of your head are often allergy-induced.
"The usual seasonal-allergy headache will be associated with a lot of nasal congestion and other nasal and eye symptoms," Dr. Alan Goldsobel [3], MD, with the Allergy & Asthma Associates of Northern California, adds.
Throughout spring and early summer, Dr. Goldsobel explains that allergens — which generally create inflammation [4] and swelling in the nasal passages and sinus cavities — can also trigger migraines [5] in people who are prone to them.
If seasonal-allergy headaches [6] are negatively affecting your quality of life, Dr. Goldsobel suggests that you see a doctor. In the meantime, over-the-counter medications like allergy antihistamines, anti-allergy nasal sprays, acetaminophens, or NSAIDs could help ease your pain.
Reducing your exposure to allergens by avoiding the outdoors during peak-pollen times — like midmorning, early evening, and while the wind is blowing — can also lower your risk of allergy headaches [8].
While inside, keep your doors and windows closed, wash your hands or take a shower after being outside, and use an air conditioner instead of a window fan. Cleaning your pets after they've been outdoors will keep pollen [9] out and lessen your chances of experiencing head pain, too.
Yes, staying inside as the weather finally heats up is far from ideal, but it's a quick fix as you wait for an allergy-relief prescription from your doctor.
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