Spring in Minnesota is something we all look forward to — warmer days, longer evenings, and the first signs of green after a long winter. But for the millions of Americans living with seasonal allergies, spring also marks the start of sneezing, itchy eyes, and that relentless stuffy-head feeling that just won’t quit.
Our own Dr. Knoedler from Midwest Allergy & Asthma recently joined MPR News host Angela Davis to talk about how to get ahead of spring allergy season. Click here to listen to the full interview. The key takeaway? Don’t wait until you’re miserable to take action.
Why Spring Allergies Hit Hard in Minnesota
Tree pollen is the primary culprit in the early spring months, with birch, oak, and elm trees among the biggest offenders in the Twin Cities area. As temperatures rise, these trees release pollen in large quantities, and on dry or windy days, counts can spike quickly. The result is that many allergy sufferers go from feeling fine to overwhelmed almost overnight.
Adding to the challenge, warmer winters and earlier springs mean pollen season is starting sooner than it used to — and lasting longer. If your symptoms seem worse than they were a few years ago, you’re not imagining it.
Getting Ahead of the Season
One of the most effective strategies for managing spring allergies is starting treatment before symptoms begin. Over-the-counter antihistamines and nasal sprays can be helpful, but they work best when they’re already in your system when pollen counts rise. Talk to your provider about the right timing for your specific triggers.
Other steps that can make a real difference:
- Monitor pollen counts. On high-count days, limit your time outdoors, especially in the morning when pollen levels tend to peak.
- Keep windows closed. It’s tempting to let fresh air in, but open windows invite pollen into your home and car.
- Shower after time outside. Rinsing off helps remove pollen from your skin and hair before it has a chance to settle on your pillow or furniture.
- Change your air filters. A clean HEPA filter in your home can significantly reduce indoor allergen exposure.
When Over-the-Counter Isn’t Enough
For many people, allergy symptoms are more than just an inconvenience — they interfere with sleep, focus, and daily life. If you find yourself relying on medication daily, still struggling despite treatment, or experiencing symptoms well beyond the spring months, it may be time to see an allergist.
At Midwest Allergy & Asthma, our specialists can identify exactly what you’re reacting to through allergy testing and create a personalized treatment plan. For patients who want longer-term relief, immunotherapy — available as allergy shots or sublingual drops — can reduce your sensitivity to allergens over time rather than just masking symptoms.
Ready to Take Control of Your Allergies?
Spring doesn’t have to mean suffering. Whether you’re a longtime allergy patient or noticing symptoms for the first time, our Midwest Allergy & Asthma team is here to help. Request an appointment at any of our Twin Cities locations and get ahead of the season — before the sneezing starts. Call 651-702-0750 for more.