A Guide to Allergies

The changing seasons can bring new flowers in bloom, and warmer temperatures encourage everyone to get outside more. However, for some people, the reality of seasonal allergies can cause this to be an extremely uncomfortable time.

Over 50-million Americans have allergies ranging from life-threatening allergies to seasonal allergies. However, regardless of how severe your allergy is, the symptoms can disrupt your life and be miserable to cope with, especially regarding seasonal allergies.

With around 25-million Americans experiencing seasonal allergies, knowing how to reduce the symptoms can provide relief from this issue or lessen the effects of this allergy season.

What Causes Seasonal Allergies?

While some allergens such as food, pet dander and dust mites are around all year, seasonal allergies are when the seasons change and increase pollen, typically the spring and summer months. Seasonal allergies are triggered when a person’s immune system is sensitive to substances such as pollen or grass. Your symptoms are your body trying to rid itself of the pollutant.

Seasonal allergy symptoms include runny nose, congestion, itchy skin and puffy eyes. Read on to find out how to reduce your symptoms this allergy season.

Find the Best Allergy Medication

Antihistamines are the first step in blocking allergy symptoms and can make allergy season more bearable. Antihistamines work by blocking histamine, which is triggered when the body detects something harmful. Always check your antihistamines to see if they cause drowsiness and are suitable for you before taking them. Antihistamines work within an hour of taking them.

Nasal sprays can effectively remove any pollen lingering in the nasal passages to remove other contaminants from your body and reduce symptoms such as congestion or a runny nose. you can use nasal sprays twice daily; however, they can take a few weeks to work effectively.

Decongestants can help relieve congestion if you feel particularly stuffy; however, this isn’t recommended for long-term use. If over-the-counter remedies aren’t practical, you can consult an ear, nose and throat (ENT) doctor to discuss prescription medication to help relieve symptoms.

Taking Your Medication at the Correct Time

Antihistamines can take up to an hour to work, so timing when you take your medication is vital to get it to work when you need it. The best time to take it is at bedtime, as it gives it a chance to work when pollen levels are lower and gives you protection the next day. Most antihistamines work up to 24 hours, meaning you are covered for the day.

Avoid High Pollen Areas

It isn’t always practical to stay home with the windows and door shut; however, it can be a good idea on days with exceptionally high pollen counts. Always check your local weather forecast for predicted levels and assess your risk to prepare fully. This can allow you to make sure you have everything you need to hand to help reduce the symptoms.

Use High-Efficiency Particulate Filters (HEPA) at Home

Using a HEPA filter in your air conditioning can help trap pollen and pet dander, removing more allergens from the air. This reduces the risk of triggering your allergy and gives you peace of mind at home.

Use an Air Purifier

Air purifiers work differently, so it’s best to check the model you are considering using before purchasing. Ensure it works as needed to remove harmful particles from the air and keep your home cleaner during allergy season.

Other options for a cleaner home include increasing how often you vacuum, closing windows on high pollen days, drying washing indoors, changing your clothes immediately after coming home and washing them and changing your bed sheets more frequently too.

Discuss Treatment with Your Doctor

Talking to an ENT doctor can help you determine your allergies’ best course of action. An allergy test can be helpful, so you know exactly what triggers the symptoms. Immunotherapy with allergy shots can also be an option if your allergy is severe. This teaches your body not to be allergic to your triggers, but it can take some time to work and desensitize your immune systems fully.

Allergy shots can be the most effective option, and an entire course of shots can give you protection for five to 10 years. If your symptoms affect your ability to live your life, discuss your allergies with an ENT doctor this allergy season to find the right treatment plan for you. Contact ENT Specialists at (402) 983-9948 today.