As spring unfolds, many people brace themselves for the inevitable itchy eyes, sneezing, and sinus pressure that come with seasonal allergies. But for some, these symptoms can signal more than just allergies—especially if they linger or come with coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath. Allergies and asthma are closely connected, and in many cases, one can trigger the other.
We sat down with Dr. Stephanie Kinnaman, one of the newest physicians at Priority Physicians, to explore what’s normal, what’s not, and when it might be time to take a closer look at what’s really going on.
General Allergy Trends & Triggers
If it feels like your allergies are out for revenge this year, you’re not alone. But is it actually worse than usual?
“Not necessarily,” says Dr. Kinnaman. “We’re right in the thick of spring allergy season. Trees are blooming, grass is greening, and pollen counts are doing their thing.”
Still, some patients are noticing symptoms earlier than expected. That’s because tree pollen (Feb–May) and grass pollen (May–July) are starting to overlap, turning your nose into a battleground. And let’s not forget ragweed season (August–September), waiting in the wings to launch its own attack.
So if your allergies feel a little… extra this year, blame the botanical overlap and keep an eye on that weather app pollen count.
Allergies and Asthma Connection
How Are Allergies and Asthma Related?
Here’s where things get interesting. Allergies and asthma are often part of the same overreactive crew. In fact, there’s a whole group of folks called atopic patients—people prone to eczema, allergies, and asthma. If your body loves to overdo it when exposed to things like pollen, dust, or pet dander, you’re probably in this club.
“Allergic rhinitis affects the nose and eyes, asthma hits the lungs and airways, and eczema shows up on the skin,” Dr. Kinnaman explains. “It’s all part of the same hypersensitive system.”
Translation: if you’re sneezing like crazy, don’t be surprised if your chest is feeling a little tight too.
“Asthma is often triggered by environmental allergies,” says Dr. Kinnaman. “I see it in myself and in many patients. You might start with a runny nose or itchy eyes, but if you’re also noticing wheezing, a tight chest, or a chronic nighttime cough, it’s worth talking to your doctor.”
These symptoms could indicate asthma or reactive airway disease, both of which are manageable with proper treatment. Evaluation may include spirometry (a lung function test) or other pulmonary assessments to determine whether medications like inhalers are necessary.
Diagnosis & Personalized Treatment
It’s not just one bad sneeze season that tips off your doctor. Environmental allergies usually take time to develop, which is why kids often start showing signs as they enter toddlerhood. Parents might notice “allergy shiners” (those dark circles under the eyes), a crease on the nose from constant wiping, dry skin patches, or red, puffy eyes. These visible signs can be key indicators of an overactive immune response.
In adults, the clues can be more subtle—but the symptoms can be just as disruptive. Many adult patients assume they’ve “outgrown” allergies or dismiss symptoms as a cold or sinus infection. But persistent nasal congestion, frequent headaches, or post-nasal drip that returns every spring (or fall) may actually point to seasonal allergies or even adult-onset asthma.
For asthma, the diagnostic path is a bit more technical and often involves a spirometry test, which measures lung function. Doctors may also do a bronchodilator challenge, where they assess how the lungs respond to inhaled medication. This helps determine whether symptoms like shortness of breath, chest tightness, or a nagging cough—especially at night—are tied to asthma or another respiratory condition.
At-Home Prevention & Lifestyle
What Can You Do to Feel Better Without Leaving Your House?
Before you book a one-way flight to a pollen-free island, there are some practical steps you can take right at home to keep symptoms in check—whether it’s a sneeze or a wheeze.
Start with nasal sprays. Steroid sprays like Flonase and antihistamine sprays like Azelastine are your first line of defense. They’re safe, effective, and work even better when used together. Just remember: steroid sprays can take a few days to reach full effect, so consistency is key.
Layer in oral antihistamines if needed. Claritin, Zyrtec, and Allegra are all solid options. These can help with itchy eyes, runny noses, and other lingering symptoms that sprays alone don’t solve.
Don’t wait to treat. If you know allergy season hits you hard every year, it’s okay to start your meds before symptoms peak. Many people only need treatment during certain months, while others benefit from year-round support.
Keep an eye on your breathing. If your allergy season comes with chest tightness, coughing (especially at night), or shortness of breath, you may be dealing with more than just allergies. Asthma often shows up subtly—and allergies are one of its most common triggers.
Whether it’s pollen or pet dander, knowing how allergies and asthma play off each other can help you manage both more effectively. So next time spring rolls around and your usual sneezing is joined by a tight chest or a wheezy breath, don’t just tough it out—it might be asthma’s subtle way of crashing the party.
Not sure if your symptoms are just allergies—or something more?
Call your physician to talk it through. If you’re a new patient or interested in becoming one, Dr. Stephanie Kinnaman is now accepting new patients at Priority Physicians. She brings a thoughtful, personalized approach to allergy and asthma care and more, and she’s here to help you feel your best—season after season.
