Your nose is irritated, you’re congested, and run down. Like one in five Americans, you’ve got seasonal allergies and you feel awful.
The good news? You don’t have to keep suffering. Help is only an allergist visit away.
Here are some important
questions to ask your allergist on your next visit:
1. What Are Allergies? Seasonal allergies, also referred to as hay fever and allergic rhinitis, can cause a variety of symptoms, including sneezing, coughing, a runny and stuffed nose, postnasal drip, and watery and itchy eyes. These symptoms occur because your immune system is overreacting to pollen, causing an immune response. Symptoms can range from mild to intense and even lead to sinus and ear infections.
2. How Do I know I Have Seasonal Allergies? If your symptoms only occur at certain times of the year, especially in the spring (tree pollen), summer (grass pollen), or fall (weed pollen) when pollens are most prevalent, you likely suffer from seasonal allergies. Your allergist should be able to quickly diagnose your allergies based on your past history of symptoms and an allergy skin test.
3. What Treatments Are Available? From antihistamines, to steroid sprays, to nasal rinses like Alkalol Nasal Wash, there are several prescription and over-the-counter treatments available. WebMD has a comprehensive list of the medications available for you to discuss with your allergist.
4. How Can I Prevent Seasonal Allergies? When it comes to seasonal allergies, avoiding the “triggers” for your symptoms can be just as important as taking medicine. Small things like staying indoors in the morning when pollen counts are highest or changing your clothes after working outside can sharply reduce symptoms. Crafting a prevention plan with your doctor may be the easiest and best step you can take to controlling your seasonal allergy symptoms.
Have a healthy week!
