It may not feel like it for some in the country, but spring has officially sprung. With the later sunsets and blooming plant life comes a common nuisance for many Americans: spring allergies. Here’s a look at who suffers from spring allergies and the most popular treatment options.

Two-thirds of U.S. adults deal with spring allergies.

According to the latest data from CivicScience, spring allergies impact a significant proportion of Americans. Sixty-six percent of U.S. adults report experiencing spring allergies; 51% classify their symptoms as ‘moderate,’ while 15% describe their allergies as ‘severe.’  

Seasonal allergies affect Americans of all ages. Adults aged 35-54 are the most likely to report suffering from spring allergies, 69% of whom say they deal with at least ‘moderate’ spring allergies. Gen Z adults and younger Millennials aged 25-34 are much more likely to classify their allergies as ‘severe.’

Four in ten spring allergy sufferers take allergy medicine several times a week.

According to new CivicScience polling data, allergy medicine is a common remedy for spring allergy sufferers, as 71% opt for medication at least a few times throughout the season – 40% opt for medication several times a week, while 25% typically rely on medication daily for symptom relief (n=4,135).

A growing number of people are looking to medication this season as 66% of spring allergy sufferers feel at least ‘somewhat likely’ they’ll purchase allergy medicine this year, a two percentage point increase from 2022 (N=4,290). That said, which brands do people trust the most to help alleviate their symptoms? 

As more people expect to buy allergy medication, Benadryl remains the most trusted for symptom relief.

Among allergy medications, Benadryl represents the highest level of consumer trust for allergy relief at 45% – a four percentage point increase over last year. Claritin follows behind at 40%, up three percentage points. In fact, nearly every brand studied gained in trust year-over-year, with exception of Xyzal, which fell slightly to 6%.

Just 1-in-3 spring allergy sufferers will consider making doctor appointments this year.

Allergies can sometimes be more than just a simple nuisance, rising to a level beyond simply reaching for an OTC medicine. Nearly one-fifth (19%) of spring allergy sufferers consider it ‘somewhat likely’ they’ll be seeking the guidance of a medical professional to help manage their symptoms this year. One in ten take it a step further and believe it’s ‘very likely’ a professional medical consultation is in their future. Gen Z adults are the most likely to get professional help for their allergies.

More CivicScience Insights that are nothing to sneeze at:

  • Seventy percent of U.S. adult women report having spring allergies compared to 59% of U.S. adult men. Women are also more likely to report severe spring allergies (17% to 11%).
  • One-quarter of allergy sufferers say big-box stores (such as Target or Walmart) are their most common source for allergy medicine, a two percentage point increase over last year. Chain pharmacies such as CVS remain the top choice at 33%.
  • Instances of those reporting a severe spring allergy fell in every U.S. region over the past year, with the exception of the West, which rose by two percentage points to 22%. 
  • Americans living in cities are more likely to say they suffer from severe spring allergies (17%), compared to those living in suburbs (13%) or rural areas (12%).

Although spring has officially begun, its effects have hit the country unequally. Some parts of the U.S. have entered the blooming season as much as three weeks early, according to the USA National Phenology Network at the University of Arizona.

How will the arrival times of spring at different rates throughout the country affect allergies and the pharmaceutical and medical industries as a result? CivicScience will continue to monitor for patterns as the season progresses. See how CivicScience can help you stay in tune with the latest consumer insights like these. Work with us to learn more.