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AllergiesWritten by Janis Rockabrand, PA-C As the browns of winter transform into the green tones of spring, temperatures rise and we want to be outside gardening, doing yard work, or just enjoying the outdoors. For those with allergies, the changing seasons, especially spring and fall, can be a mixed blessing. Allergies occur when a person becomes sensitive to any number of things, such as pollens, molds, house dust mites, animal dander, perfumes, cigarette smoke, grasses, and trees, just to name a few. Common symptoms include itchy, watery, red eyes, sneezing, runny nose, postnasal drip, itchy throat and ears, and fatigue. Measures that may decrease exposure to allergens include keeping pets out of the bedroom, preferably outside. For house dust mite sensitivity, avoid contact with fuzzy woolen blankets and dust-collecting objects, such as stuffed toys, throw pillows, etc. Encase pillows, mattresses, and box springs in zipped protective covers to reduce dust. Remove carpets in bedrooms if possible. Install air conditioning, and keep windows closed to avoid outdoor allergens. Prohibit smoking in your home. Do not hang laundry outside to dry, as this just helps bring the pollen indoors. Try to avoid outdoor activities in the early morning hours when pollen counts are the highest. The mainstay of allergy treatment is antihistamines. The older, over-the-counter antihistamines are more sedating but much cheaper than the newer products. Claritin is the only non-sedating antihistamine sold over-the-counter. Some studies have shown that sedating antihistamines can cause impairment in learning, concentration, and overall school performance even when a child doesn’t feel sleepy from the medication. Corticosteroid nasal inhalers such as Flonase and Nasacort are very effective for reducing swelling in the nose so breathing is easier. When patients with allergies do not respond to the usual methods of treatment, referral to a specialist may be an option. For more information, or an appointment with Janis Rockabrand,
please call the Cresco Medical Clinic at (563) 547-2022. |