Article #3:  Allergy Season is Back

Spring is here and the allergy season will soon be upon us. This year may be more severe and longer-lasting due to the snowy/rainy winter and the warmer weather now occurring. This could allow for more pollen production from trees, weeds and grass.

It is the pollen that causes the release of histamine and the development of symptoms, such as sneezing, running nose, itchy eyes and congestion. Fortunately, we have better prevention and treatment options. These include:

• Changing your clothes immediately upon entering the house
• Showering to remove pollen
• Shutting your windows to limit pollen entering

Over the counter (OTC) meds are helpful in treating the symptoms; examples include anti-histamines such as Claritin, Allegra, and Zyrtec. These have minimal sedation effects. The anti-histamine Benadryl can cause sedation and is best considered this only for nighttime use. If you have any medical issues relating to allergies or anti-histamines, first check with your doctor before starting any of these meds.

Prescription medications include steroid nasal sprays and in some instances oral steroid medication.

For more severe symptoms that are poorly controlled by OTC remedies, consider a referral to an allergist.


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