Can allergies last all year round?

Question

Hi doctor,

I have been sneezing constantly for months. My eyes are always watering, and my nose runs like a faucet. Over-the-counter antihistamines barely help and just leave me feeling exhausted and foggy at work.

This all started in the spring and has never really stopped. Can allergies persist all year long? My symptoms are especially bad in the mornings and whenever I mow the lawn.

Sleep has become a serious issue. I feel completely stuffed up at night, and I am using nasal sprays far more often than the label recommends, just to breathe. I tried using an air purifier, but I still wake up congested. My wife says I have started snoring as well.

Is there anything stronger than standard over-the-counter medications that will not make me feel sedated or spaced out? I am genuinely struggling; some days I can barely function.

Please help me.

Thanks.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

What you are describing sounds like moderate-to-severe allergic rhinitis, likely both seasonal and perennial, given how long it’s lasted and how it's triggered by mornings, lawn mowing, and indoor exposure.

Yes, allergies can last year-round, especially if you are reacting not only to outdoor allergens like pollen but also to indoor triggers like dust mites, mold, or pet dander.

Since over-the-counter antihistamines are making you groggy and still not providing full relief, you have stronger, more targeted options available:

Medical treatment options:

Non-sedating prescription antihistamines (like Fexofenadine or Desloratadine).
Nasal corticosteroid sprays (such as Fluticasone or Mometasone), but these must be used correctly and consistently, not excessively.
Leukotriene receptor antagonists (like Montelukast), especially if you also have asthma-like symptoms or nighttime congestion.

About the nasal sprays:

The fact that you are using nasal decongestant sprays more than the label allows is concerning. Overuse leads to rebound congestion (rhinitis medicamentosa), which worsens nasal blockage over time. A short course of prescription nasal steroids, under medical supervision, can help reset and reduce that rebound effect.

Snoring and nasal blockage:

Your chronic stuffiness and snoring suggest that your nasal passages may be constantly inflamed or partially obstructed. A physical exam or even imaging (like a nasal endoscopy or sinus CT (computed tomography) may be needed to rule out nasal polyps, deviated septum, or chronic sinusitis, all of which can worsen allergies and affect sleep.

Long-term strategy:

If your symptoms continue despite basic treatment, it is time to consider:

Allergy testing - To identify specific triggers (pollens, dust mites, molds, pets, etc.).
Allergen immunotherapy - Either through shots or sublingual tablets, which over time can reduce or even eliminate allergic responses.

What you can do now:

Stop overusing nasal sprays. Switch to saline rinses (like a neti pot or saline squeeze bottle) to flush allergens and reduce congestion naturally.
Use a nasal steroid spray daily (as directed by your doctor). It takes a few days to work, but it is the foundation of allergy control.
Wear a mask when mowing the lawn or doing dusty chores.
Use dust-mite-proof covers on pillows and mattresses.
Keep windows closed during high pollen seasons and shower before bed to rinse off allergens.

I hope this helps. Feel free to reach out in case of any doubts.

Thank you.