Allergies are among the most chronic conditions worldwide. Pollen from trees, grasses and weeds, plus dust and animal dander float through the air throughout most of year, especially the spring.
These particles can end up in our eyes, noses and throats, causing sneezing, itchy eyes and throat, and congestion.
Pollen allergies, or seasonal allergies, affect one out of 10 people in the U.S. In some cases, allergies can also trigger asthma symptoms. Currently, in early spring, tree pollen is in the air. Later in the spring and into summer, grass pollen will likely be the culprit of allergy symptoms.
How do you distinguish between cold symptoms and allergies? Dr. Stephen Sorsby, QualChoice of Arkansas medical director, said with allergies, it would be unusual to have fever, sore throat, aches and yellow drainage. Those are symptoms associated with a common cold. Also, colds usually do not last more than 14 days. Allergies may be seasonal or may occur all year long and produce a clear mucous drainage and often sufferers have itchy, watery eyes.
Sorsby highlights some tips to help manage those allergy symptoms right now:
- Pay attention to pollen and mold counts. These counts measure the amount of allergens present in the air. Many weather websites and smartphone applications offer this information. You can also sign up through the National Allergy Bureau to receive a personalized email with pollen and mold levels for your geographic area.
- Avoid pollen as much as possible. You can do this by staying indoors when pollen or mold counts are high, keeping windows closed at night and, if possible, using air conditioning. Also, avoid hanging sheets or clothes outside to dry when counts are high.
- When travelling, keep vehicle windows closed.
- Always take any medications prescribed by your allergist.
- Shampoo and shower nightly to rinse the pollens from your skin and hair.
- Change your clothing before entering your bedroom to reduce pollens from being brought in.
- Gently irrigate your eyelids (while your eyes are closed) with a mild, tear free “baby” shampoo to remove excess allergens and pollutants that may have accumulated.
So, when should you get professional allergy treatment? Sorsby recommends seeing an allergist/immunologist if you experience allergies for the first time, you don’t find relief with OTC drugs or you experience allergy systems over a long period of time.