Although it still feels like winter in many parts of the United States, it's time to prepare for spring allergies. Starting in March with tree pollen from Cottonwood trees and continuing into June with grass pollen, airborne allergens can send seasonal allergy sufferers running for cover.
About 50 million Americans have pollen allergies, commonly known as hay fever. Symptoms include sneezing; stuffy or runny nose; itchy nose, throat and eyes; watery eyes; and dark circles under the eyes. According to the American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology, the most common culprits for seasonal allergies include mold spores and airborne pollen from grass, trees, and weeds.
“Staying indoors and using a mask when pollen counts are high can help alleviate symptoms,” said otolaryngologist, Debbie Habenicht, MD. “Using filters designed to eliminate or reduce airborne allergens can help you breathe easier at home.”
Managing Symptoms:
Over-the-counter medications can reduce seasonal allergy symptoms with minimal side effects, which may include drowsiness and dryness in the mouth. If your symptoms are more severe or not well controlled by over-the-counter medication, allergy testing through a simple blood test can help determine a personalized treatment plan.
“Once you learn what they are, allergies can be controlled with avoidance of allergens, desensitization shots, and medication,” Dr. Habenicht said. “By working with an allergist, area residents can determine which allergens are causing seasonal allergies symptoms and which combination of treatments will provide optimal relief.”
There are a number of other ways to relieve allergy symptoms, including:
- Keeping your home and car windows closed to keep pollen out
- Turning on your air conditioning early to filter the outside air that comes into your home
- Limiting outdoor activities on days with high pollen counts
- Washing your hair after being outside
- Not raking leaves or mowing the lawn, which stirs up pollen and molds
- Not hanging clothes or sheets outside to dry.
To limit symptoms’ interference with your life, seek help from an allergist.
Apr 6, 2015 Reporting from Niles, MI
So Long Snow, Hello Pollen
https://www.spectrumhealthlakeland.org/health-wellness/ask-the-experts/ask-the-experts/2015/04/06/so-long-snow-hello-pollen
Apr 6, 2015
Apr 6, 2015
SpectrumHealth Lakeland
Although it still feels like winter in many parts of the United States, it's time to prepare for spring allergies. Starting in March with tree pollen from Cottonwood trees and continuing into June with grass pollen, airborne allergens can send seasonal allergy sufferers running for cover.
Abou
So Long Snow, Hello Pollen
SpectrumHealth Lakeland
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