By Todd Hoffman, M.D.
Newsroom | Community Health
Office Visit: Spring Has Sprung and So Have Your Allergies
April 2, 2026
If you have lived in Oklahoma for any length of time, you’ve probably dealt with some form of allergies. Often triggered by tree, grass and mold pollen, allergies are most common between February and into early summer.
The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America consistently ranks Oklahoma City and Tulsa in the top five most challenging places to live with allergies. This is attributed to our state’s unique combination of wind, pollen and unpredictable weather.
Recognizing allergies is the first step to prevention and treatment. Typical symptoms include runny nose, congestion, itchy/watery eyes, cough, sneezing and sleep disruption.
If you are one of the millions of people that suffer each year, here are some steps you can take to prevent and manage your allergies according to the Mayo Clinic:
Todd Hoffman, M.D.
Reduce your exposure to allergy triggers: Stay indoors on dry and windy days and avoid gardening and outdoor chores that can worsen symptoms.
Take precautions when pollen counts are high: Monitor pollen levels. When high pollen counts are projected, take allergy medicine before symptoms start. Pollen counts are highest in the early morning so try to avoid outdoor activities during that time.
Keep indoor air clean: Using air conditioning, high-efficiency filters and dehumidifiers can all help improve your indoor air quality.
Try over-the-counter medications: Several over-the-counter medicines can help ease allergy symptoms. These include antihistamines, nasal sprays/rinses, eye drops and decongestants. Always talk with your doctor about the right treatment for your allergy symptoms.
If these remedies don’t bring you relief, your doctor can do skin and blood tests to narrow down your specific allergies. Knowing what you’re allergic to can help you avoid it and provide a more in-depth treatment path, such as prescription medications and immunotherapy.
Don’t suffer through this spring — enjoy it by managing your allergen triggers.
Let’s make it a good month!
Todd Hoffman, M.D., C.P.E., is chief medical officer of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma, a division of Health Care Service Corp., a Mutual Legal Reserve Company.