As we start to defrost from the long winter months and prepare for the warmer temperatures and bright blooms that come with spring, there’s one unwelcome guest lurking in the shadows – seasonal allergies.
Congestion, sneezing and itchy, watery eyes are some of the hallmark symptoms of seasonal allergies. These pesky symptoms aren’t just annoying for those unlucky enough to experience them, but sometimes they can impact a person’s daily life.
Allergies result from the immune system\’s overreaction to environmental substances, such as pollen, mold spores, dust mites, and pet dander, releasing chemicals like histamines. These chemicals lead to symptoms like sneezing, itching, and congestion.
Allergy challenges certainly loom large on the health care radar this time of year. As a primary care provider for Mercy Health, we see many of our patients battle seasonal allergies. New blooms, windy days that scatter tree and grass pollen and spring rains that cause the mold count to increase, it sometimes feels as if there’s no way to escape them. However, there are some things you can do to navigate – and maybe even prevent – your seasonal allergies.
Managing Symptoms
It’s important to stay on top of your allergies, so the bothersome symptoms don’t stop you from going about your daily activities. There are many over-the-counter solutions you can explore like Claritin or Zyrtec.
Nasal spray, such as Flonase, can be purchased at any grocery store or pharmacy. It is also one of the best ways to find relief, but only when administered the right way.
If you’re inhaling a nasal spray and you can taste that spray, then you’ve inhaled too hard. You should go a little easier next time. No matter what you choose to take, it is always important that you use all medications correctly, either as directed on the box or by your health care provider.
Environmental Control and Lifestyle Enhancements
You can also minimize exposure to allergens by using air purifiers, keeping windows closed during peak pollen times and using allergen-proof bedding to reduce dust mite exposure. In addition, lifestyle enhancements, including regular cleaning, proper ventilation, and avoiding outdoor activities during peak pollen times can help reduce symptoms. It’s also a good idea to take off your shoes and change into fresh clothes when you return home, so that you don’t track pollen into your living space.
You may also consider postponing outdoor activities until later in the morning, as pollen counts are typically highest between 5-10 a.m. So, if you’re hitting the trails for an early run or bike ride, you may want to see if you can adjust your schedule to give your sinuses a break. If you have any furry friends in your home, you should also wipe them off before they come back inside to limit any allergens that they may be hitching a ride.
When to Seek Additional Help
If you find that over-counter medication and other strategies aren’t providing effective relief, you should consider reaching out to your primary care physician. You may need to undergo allergy testing. This testing can pinpoint specific triggers, enabling the development of tailored treatment plans that may include advanced options for more targeted relief.
DR. GRANT
*Gregory Grant, DO, is a primary care physician, caring for patients at Mercy Health – Oak Point Primary and Specialty Care. Dr. Grant is a board-certified family medicine physician. He is a graduate of the University of Pikeville, Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed his residency with Case Western Reserve University/University Hospital.
ends
