Spring Allergies
It?s coming soon, or may have arrived already in some areas: allergy season. Millions fall victim to allergies every spring due to high pollen counts and end up with what medical professionals refer to as seasonal allergic rhinitis.
Thankfully, there are ways to lessen the impact of airborne pollen as well as options to effectively treat the symptoms.
Prevention
Know The Pollen Count ? The pollen count is often included in local news weather reports and can also be easily found online during the spring months. If pollen counts are high, consider staying inside, and keep the windows in your home closed.
Wash It Away ? Water and soap can go a long way in preventing allergy symptoms. A daily shower before bed will remove pollen from your hair and skin. Promptly wash clothes that were worn outside and wash your bed sheets frequently as they too will hold onto that pesky pollen.
Get An Early Start ? On your medications, at least. Most allergy medicines work best when they have been taken consistently prior to you encountering allergens in the air. This allows the medicine to prevent your body from releasing histamine and other chemicals that are responsible for allergic symptoms.
Treatment
Antihistamines ? These are available over the counter and can relieve sneezing and itching in the nose and eyes. They also reduce a runny nose and, to a lesser extent, nasal stuffiness.
Decongestants ? These are also available without a prescription, and they help shrink the lining of the nasal passages and relieve nasal stuffiness. These should only be used for short periods of time.
Nasal corticosteroids ? These are a type of nasal spray available over the counter, and in stronger concentrations with a prescription. They reduce inflammation in the nose and block allergic reactions. They are the most effective medicine type for allergic rhinitis because they can reduce all symptoms, including nasal congestion.
If your symptoms become too much to handle, or over the counter medications don?t seem to be working, visit a provider at The Little Clinic for an evaluation and further treatment options.
