Springtime in the Pacific Northwest
Spring is a beautiful time! Trees bloom, flowers grow, and everything looks fresh and green. But for many people, spring also brings sneezing, itchy eyes, and runny noses. That’s because seasonal allergies are common in our region, especially during the spring months.
At South Tabor Family Physicians, we understand how seasonal allergies can affect your life. We have been providing personalized care to families in Portland and the surrounding areas for over 60 years. Whether you’re dealing with mild symptoms or more serious allergy-related issues, we’re here to help.
What Causes Spring Allergies in Portland?
Allergies happen when your immune system reacts to things like pollen and mold. These tiny particles float in the air and can cause symptoms when you breathe them in.
In the Portland metro area, the main allergy triggers include:
- Tree pollen (especially from alder, birch, oak, and maple)
- Grass pollen (like ryegrass and timothy grass)
- Mold spores (especially on damp days)
These allergens are most common from March through June, but for some people, symptoms can last into summer or even return in the fall. For a helpful overview of seasonal allergies, visit the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.
Common Allergy Symptoms
It’s not always easy to tell the difference between a cold and allergies. But if your symptoms last more than 10 to 14 days or come back year after year, allergies might be the cause. Here are the most common signs of spring allergies:
- Sneezing
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Itchy, red, or watery eyes
- Scratchy throat or dry cough
- Sinus pressure or headaches
- Fatigue or trouble concentrating
These symptoms can make it hard to enjoy time outdoors or even get a good night’s sleep.
How to Manage Spring Allergies
There are many ways to lower your symptoms and improve your comfort during allergy season.
- Limit Your Exposure to Pollen
- Keep windows closed in your home and car
- Change clothes and shower after spending time outside
- Use an air purifier with a HEPA filter
- Avoid outdoor activities on high-pollen days
- Use Over-the-Counter Allergy Relief
- Antihistamines can help reduce sneezing, runny nose, and itching
- Nasal sprays can relieve swelling and congestion
- Eye drops help soothe red, itchy, or watery eyes
If these options do not provide enough relief, your doctor may recommend a prescription or additional testing.
- Rinse Your Sinuses
- A simple saline spray or neti pot can help flush out pollen from your nasal passages
- Always use clean, distilled, or filtered water
- This method is safe and helpful for many people with allergies
- Plan Ahead for Outdoor Activities
- Check pollen counts before going outside
- Try to go outside after it rains, when pollen is lower
- Wear sunglasses and a hat to keep pollen out of your eyes and hair
When to See Your Provider
If allergies are starting to affect your everyday life, it may be time to speak with your healthcare provider.
You should schedule a visit if:
- Your symptoms last for more than two weeks
- Over-the-counter medicines are not working
- You feel tired all the time or have trouble sleeping
- You develop asthma-like symptoms such as wheezing or shortness of breath
- You are unsure whether your symptoms are allergies or something else
At South Tabor Family Physicians, we offer same-day appointments and on-site lab testing to help you get answers quickly.
Our Allergy-Related Services
As a trusted primary care clinic in Portland, we care for the whole person. Whether you are a child, adult, or senior, we tailor treatment plans to your needs.
We offer:
- Wellness exams and preventive care
- Treatment for seasonal and environmental allergies
- Asthma management
- Support for chronic sinus issues
- Pediatric care for children with allergies
- On-site lab and urine testing
- Referrals to specialists when needed
Our team has experience managing allergies and other chronic conditions that can get worse during spring, such as asthma and sinusitis. We also help patients monitor their medications and make safe, effective changes when needed.
Why Choose South Tabor Family Physicians?
For over 60 years, we’ve been helping families in the South Tabor neighborhood and the greater Portland area stay healthy. Our clinic is known for compassionate, personalized care, and we’re proud to be a resource for long-term wellness.
What makes us different:
- Convenient Southeast Portland location
- Care for patients of all ages and life stages
- Same-day appointments available
- On-site X-ray and lab services
- We now accept Kaiser Permanente and other major insurance plans
- Friendly, experienced healthcare providers
We’re also accepting new patients, and we welcome individuals and families looking for long-term care with a team they can trust.
Ready to Feel Better This Spring?
Seasonal allergies are common in Portland, but you don’t have to suffer through them. With the right care and support, you can breathe easier and enjoy the beauty of spring.
To schedule an appointment, call South Tabor Family Physicians at 503-261-7200. Whether you’re dealing with mild allergy symptoms or more complex health needs, we’re here to help you stay well—this season and all year long.
