There is so much to love about spring. The daffodils, tulips, and other bulbs springing forth from the ground in cheerful abundance, the rolling hills covered in velvety green grass, the flowering trees…. And then you start sneezing.
Allergic rhinitis is the official name given to the condition caused when the body's immune system reacts to certain inhaled substances called allergens. In addition to sneezing, symptoms may include itchy, watery eyes, runny nose, postnasal drip, and itchy throat, nose, and ears. Sometimes an ear or sinus infection may develop.'
If these symptoms occur only at certain times of the year, you probably have seasonal allergies, also known as hay fever, caused by pollens from trees, weeds, and grasses. Some people get these symptoms throughout the year. Indoor allergies can result from exposure to dust mites, animal dander, cockroaches, and mold. Some people are allergic to both pollens and indoor allergens.
Most of the time, I can tell the difference between my allergy symptoms and a cold, but sometimes it is more difficult. A cold usually lasts for seven to ten days and comes on gradually. Allergy symptoms come on suddenly, usually within minutes or a few hours after exposure to the allergen. Allergies may last a few hours or go on for days and weeks, and despite the name hay "fever," do not involve a rise in body temperature. They can develop at any time, so even if you were allergy-free as a child, you may get allergic rhinitis during your adult years.
There is no cure for allergies, but sometimes symptoms decrease or even disappear over time. The best treatment is to avoid exposure to whatever causes your allergy. If pollen is the problem, try to stay indoors when pollen counts are high. In the car, keep the airflow turned to inside flow to minimize the amount of pollen coming into the car. Leave shoes outside to avoid tracking pollen into the house. When allergies are severe, your doctor may suggest allergy testing to find out exactly what you are reacting to. Once that is determined, allergy shots are an option for treatment.'
Indoor allergies require frequent house cleaning, including vacuuming and changing bed linens on a regular basis. For information about bedding encasements, you can refer to the May issue of Prevention.
For occasional allergies, you may get relief from over-the-counter (OTC) medications that contain antihistamines and/or decongestants. If these medications make you too sleepy or cause other unpleasant side effects, or when your symptoms are more severe, your doctor may order a prescription medication to help you feel better. Certain plants act as air filters that can decrease indoor pollutants and allergens and also help to keep indoor humidity at proper levels. Avoid flowering plants that may have pollen, and don't overwater because the damp dirt could breed mildew and mold. Some good plants to consider include Areca palm, lady palm, bamboo palm, rubber plant, English ivy, dwarf date palm, Ficus alii, Boston fern, corn plant, golden pathos, and Gerbera daisy.
Paulette Avery is a registered nurse and a freelance writer who specializes in health issues. You can reach her at averyfam\@comcast.net.
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