According to the 2025 Allergy Capitals list by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, Nashville, TN, ranks 29th, making it one of the most difficult states to live in for those who suffer from seasonal allergies.

Here’s a closer look at the common Nashville allergies during the festive holiday season:

🍂During the fall season, ragweed pollen becomes the worst offender for frustrating seasonal allergy symptoms. Ragweed pollen is light and can travel long distances in the air, causing allergic reactions in many individuals who are sensitive to it. Ragweed usually sticks around until the first frost, causing issues until then.

❄️Come winter, Nashville residents can enjoy a bit of respite from pollen allergies as plants pause growth and vegetation. However, Tennessee residents also need to be mindful of indoor allergens, as more people tend to spend more time indoors. Dust mites, pet dander, and mold are common culprits during this time.

📝Tips for a Symptom-Free Nashville Holiday Season

✅Stay away from smoke

The colder holiday season means wood burning to keep homes warm and cozy. While this adds to the holiday spirit, smoke is a very common trigger for asthma and allergies. If you can, request that the hearth remain unlit. Otherwise, stay in another room to avoid smoke, and that also includes cigarette smoke.

✅Prepare for visits to other people’s homes

If you’re traveling or visiting other people’s homes, especially if they have pets, take your allergy or asthma medication before the visit. This will reduce your body’s reaction. If possible, ask their pets to be put in a separate room.

✅Clean and dust holiday decorations before displaying them

Artificial Christmas trees and other holiday decorations kept in storage will naturally collect dust. Clean and dust them before displaying them again for the holiday season.

✅Run an air purifier

An indoor air purifier reduces allergens and irritants in the air and keeps indoor air fresh, which is especially good for those who suffer from allergies.

✅Keep homes clean

If you’re hosting people over the holidays, it’s important to keep your home clean, not just for your own sake, but for others as well. Dust and vacuum before guests arrive. Pay extra attention to rugs, curtains, furniture, and other high-traffic areas.

✅If you have food allergies

• Stay extra vigilant about what you pick up to eat.
• Always ask what ingredients were used before you eat something new.
• It’s okay to turn down certain foods if you’re not sure about the ingredients.
• Bring your own allergen-free foods if necessary, and be wary of cross-contamination.
• Remember, there’s nothing rude about advocating for yourself.

✅ If you’re traveling for the holidays

• Don’t forget to pack your allergy essentials like allergy and asthma medications, antihistamines, decongestants, and saline nasal sprays.
• Wear a dust mask to reduce your exposure to airborne allergens and always wash your hands, especially before you touch your face, nose, eyes, and mouth.
• If you’re traveling by car, keep the windows up.
• Always do your research about the place you’re visiting and look up the pollen count before your journey.

Expert Allergy Care and Sinus Relief in Nashville, TN

Allergies can be frustrating, even more so if they start impacting your holiday spirit. Here at Tennessee Breathe Free, a Nashville-based clinic with board-certified ENT and allergy specialists, we are committed to helping our patients across Middle Tennessee better manage their allergies during the holiday season.

Our ENT specialists provide in-office allergy testing in Nashville, Green Hills, and nearby areas, and offer management tips and strategies that can help you cope with your symptoms.

Looking for a sinus specialist in Nashville or the surrounding Tennessee communities during the holidays? We are here to help. Schedule a consultation with our team today and get a personalized allergy care plan tailored based on your evaluation, medical history, and health goals.

📍Conveniently located in the Green Hills area of Nashville, Tennessee Breathe Free offers expert sinus and allergy care for Middle Tennessee residents.