7 Common Allergy Symptoms Houstonians Shouldn’t Ignore in 2026

Madeleine Herman, MD, MPH

Texas allergy season feels longer—and worse—than ever. With warmer winters, higher pollen counts, and year-round allergens, many Texans are experiencing persistent allergy symptoms that go far beyond an occasional sniffle.

While mild allergies can often be managed with over-the-counter medications, some symptoms signal a bigger problem and shouldn’t be ignored. In 2025, knowing when to see an ENT or allergy specialist can prevent chronic sinus infections, poor sleep, and long-term nasal damage.

Here are 7 common allergy symptoms Texans shouldn’t ignore—and what they may actually mean.

1. Chronic Nasal Congestion That Never Fully Clears

If your nose feels constantly stuffed, even when you’re not sick, allergies may be causing ongoing inflammation inside the nasal passages.

In Texas, common triggers include:

• Tree pollen (cedar, oak)

• Grass pollen

• Mold spores (especially after storms)

• Dust mites

Why it matters:Chronic nasal congestion can lead to mouth breathing, poor sleep, sinus infections, and even sleep apnea. Long-term inflammation may also cause turbinate hypertrophy or nasal polyps.

👉 If congestion lasts more than 10–14 days, it’s time for an ENT evaluation.

2. Postnasal Drip With Throat Clearing or Chronic Cough

That constant feeling of mucus dripping down the back of your throat isn’t just annoying—it’s one of the most common allergy complaints ENT doctors see in Texas.

You may notice:

• Frequent throat clearing

• A chronic cough

• Hoarseness or voice changes

• A “lump in the throat” sensation

  
  

Why it matters:Untreated postnasal drip can irritate the throat and vocal cords, worsen asthma, and disrupt sleep.

3. Sinus Pressure or Facial Pain That Keeps Coming Back

Allergies don’t always cause sneezing and itching. In many Texans, they show up as sinus pressure, facial pain, or headaches.

Common areas affected:

• Forehead

• Cheeks

• Around the eyes

• Upper teeth

  
  

Why it matters:Allergies can block sinus drainage, leading to recurrent or chronic sinus infections. If you’re repeatedly needing antibiotics or feeling pressure that never fully resolves, allergies may be the root cause.

4. Frequent Sinus Infections (More Than 3–4 Per Year)

If you feel like you’re “always getting sinus infections,” allergies are often the underlying trigger.

Allergic inflammation:

• Swells sinus openings

• Traps mucus

• Creates an environment for bacteria to grow

  
  

Why it matters:Repeated sinus infections can progress to chronic sinusitis, sometimes requiring in-office procedures or surgery if left untreated.

5. Itchy, Watery, or Red Eyes That Don’t Improve

Eye symptoms are often dismissed as “just allergies,” but persistent or severe symptoms deserve attention.

Watch for:

• Constant eye itching

• Redness or burning

• Excessive tearing

• Puffy eyelids

  
  

Why it matters:Chronic eye irritation can interfere with daily activities and may indicate significant environmental allergies that need targeted treatment.

6. Fatigue or Poor Sleep Despite Getting Enough Hours

Many Texans don’t realize allergies can seriously impact sleep quality.

Allergies can cause:

• Nasal obstruction

• Mouth breathing

• Snoring

• Frequent nighttime awakenings

Why it matters:Poor sleep leads to daytime fatigue, brain fog, decreased productivity, and worsened mood. In some cases, untreated nasal obstruction can contribute to sleep-disordered breathing.

7. Over-the-Counter Medications No Longer Work

If antihistamines, nasal sprays, or decongestants used to help but no longer do, your allergies may be progressing—or you may be using medications incorrectly.

Why it matters:Long-term reliance on certain sprays (like decongestants) can actually worsen congestion. An ENT or allergy specialist can offer:

• Prescription nasal therapies

• Allergy testing

• Immunotherapy options

• Structural evaluations of the nose and sinuses

  
  

When Should Texans See an ENT or Allergy Specialist?

You should consider a professional evaluation if:

• Symptoms last longer than 2 weeks

• You have recurrent sinus infections

• Allergy symptoms affect sleep or daily life

• OTC medications stop working

• You have facial pain, nasal blockage, or chronic drainage

  
  

Take Control of Your Allergies in 2026

Allergies in Texas aren’t just seasonal anymore—they’re often year-round. Ignoring symptoms can lead to chronic sinus disease, sleep issues, and unnecessary antibiotics.

With proper diagnosis and treatment, most patients experience significant relief and better quality of life.

📅 Don’t wait until symptoms worsen—early treatment makes a difference.

Call 833-723-6863

Visit us at SCENTHouston.com

2450 Fondren Rd Ste 130