Tips for managing diabetes and glucose during allergy season

Published: Mar. 20, 2025

4 min read

Woman picking out flowers in an outside shop while wearing the sensor

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The content in this article should not be taken as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider regarding your individual health needs.

Allergy season can be a challenging time for anyone. If you’re keeping an eye on your glucose levels or have diabetes, the sneezing, sniffling, and itchy eyes might come with an added layer of complexity. Many allergy treatments can impact glucose levels, making it important to approach this time of year with a little extra care and planning.

Here are some practical tips to help you simultaneously manage your allergies and your glucose levels.

1. Choose allergy medications wisely

Common allergy medications can provide much-needed relief, but some may affect glucose levels. For example:

Decongestants like pseudoephedrine can raise glucose levels and blood pressure.
Antihistamines are usually safer, with little impact on glucose, but always check labels as some antihistamines also contain decongestants.

When in doubt, reach out to your healthcare team or pharmacist for advice. They can help you find the best option that works for both your allergies and glucose management.

2. Keep a closer eye on your glucose

Seasonal allergies and their treatments can make glucose levels more unpredictable. Along with the fluctuations caused by some medications, seasonal stress can increase cortisol levels, potentially leading to glucose spikes.

If you’re feeling under the weather or starting a new treatment, consider using a glucose biosensor, like Stelo, to track your glucose 24/7. You’ll gain valuable insight into how meds and environmental factors are affecting your glucose levels, while gaining the ability to catch any unwelcome trends early on.

3. Stay hydrated

Itchy eyes and a stuffy nose aren’t the only things allergies dry out—dehydration can sneak up on you too. Allergies and some medications can leave you feeling parched, which can raise glucose levels. Drinking plenty of water has multiple benefits, helping you flush out allergens, reduce dryness, and support stable glucose levels. Make it a habit to sip water throughout the day, especially when you’re taking medications or spending time outside.

4. Tame the triggers

Prevention is one of the best strategies for managing allergies. Here are a few ideas:

Limit outdoor exposure on high-pollen days, especially in the early morning and evening.
Keep windows closed and use an air purifier indoors to minimize allergens in your home.
Shower and change clothes after being outside to remove pollen from your body and hair.

By reducing allergen exposure, you might even rely less on medications, which can help simplify the season.

5. Boost your immune system with smart nutrition

Good nutrition is the cornerstone of managing diabetes and allergies. Try incorporating foods rich in Vitamin C, like oranges, bell peppers, and broccoli, which can naturally help reduce histamine levels. And look to add in some omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish, nuts, and seeds, which may help reduce inflammation.

6. Don’t forget about activity—but be strategic

Physical activity can reduce stress, boost glucose health, and help with allergy symptoms by improving airflow. However, if you’re planning outdoor activity check pollen counts beforehand and avoid high-pollen times. You might even consider wearing a mask to minimize allergen exposure. If outdoor activity is too irritating, try an indoor workout instead.

Woman sitting down outside with her eyes closed

Live more comfortably this allergy season

Navigating glucose health while also managing allergy season may feel like a balancing act, but with a proactive approach, you can stay on top of your health. Remember, the little things—whether it’s tracking your glucose more closely, tweaking your routine, or seeking advice from your healthcare team—will help you breathe a little easier throughout the season.