Watery eyes, runny noses and sneezing has consumed the campus as students battle this spring’s wave of seasonal allergies.

“Seasonal allergies, also known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis, are the immune system’s response to airborne substances, such as pollen or mold spores, that appear during certain times of the year,” Dr. Jane Torgerson, the director of TCU’s Brown-Lupton Health Center, said.

Some common symptoms of seasonal allergies are runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, itchy, watery or red eyes and frequent headaches.

With North Texas ranking among the top five cities with the highest pollen counts, TCU students are exposed to more allergies and are suffering from increased allergy symptoms.

“Whenever springtime rolls around, it’s great because we have the tulips and the weather is great, but the allergies… that’s when they come out to play for sure,” Sydney Thomas, a junior exercise science major, said.

There are many different ways students can take care of themselves during this allergy season. 

Students can check pollen counts regularly through the weather app on their phones or by going to www.Pollen.com. By monitoring the day’s pollen count, students can make informed decisions about whether or not to spend more or less time outside.

Additionally, students can create pollen-free spaces by keeping windows closed and using air conditioning during high pollen times. The health center also recommends that students shower and wash their clothes after spending time outside to remove any lingering pollen.

Lastly, students can meet with their healthcare providers, either on or off campus, to discuss different medication options and treatments if their allergies persist.

Appointments can be made at TCU Health Center if help is needed during allergy season.