It’s Almost Allergy Season!
With seasonal allergies knocking on our door, it is time to be proactive to avoid being in absolute misery. But how? Let’s first define seasonal allergies and then talk about ways to make your allergy season more bearable.
What are seasonal allergies?
Seasonal allergies are a group of symptoms that sufferers usually start experiencing around February into early Summer. These symptoms include stuffy or runny nose, sore throat, itchy eyes and nose, sneezing, and dark circles under the eyes.
What causes seasonal allergies?
With Spring, comes warmer weather and the beautiful blooms we see on trees and flowers alike. With that beauty, comes the pollination of trees, grass, and ragweed. These plants release pollen in the air and for those who are allergic to this pollen, the sneezing and runny nose begins!
How to treat seasonal allergies?
The best way to avoid or minimize allergies is to be proactive. If possible, avoid your allergy triggers. Monitor pollen and mold counts by watching your local weather reports or by looking at weather sites online, such as The Weather Channel. Stay inside when your trigger counts are highest. If you have been working or playing outside, take a shower and change clothes once you come inside.
Start taking you allergy medications about a month prior to when your allergies start. If your allergies are mild, taking over the counter allergy medications like Zyrtec, Claritin, or Allegra can make a large impact on your seasonal allergies. Nasal sprays like Flonase and Astepro are also helpful. Nursing tip: use both Flonase and Astepro at the same time. These two medications work together to help relieve allergy symptoms.
For more severe allergies that are not well controlled by over the counter medications, a visit to your primary care provider or to an allergy specialist may be in order. They may recommend allergy testing and prescribe stronger medications to help relieve those watery, itchy eyes.
Here’s to blooming flowers, warmer weather, and allergy free days!
-Kyra RN
