From Baylor College of Medicine: Allergies - Know your treatment options
Allergies got you down? Dr. Madhu Narra, assistant professor of
medicine in the section of allergy, immunology and rheumatology at
Baylor College of Medicine offers some tips to help manage.
Fall is the blooming season for weeds such as ragweed while spring
allergies are from blooming trees and grasses. Indoor allergens such as
dust mites can cause symptoms all year round. it is important to be
aware of what you are allergic to so that you know when to look out for
these allergens, said Narra.
Symptoms include runny and itchy eyes and nose, sneezing, congestion,
drainage and cough. Some people may experience wheezing and trouble
breathing.
• For mild allergies, consider
over-the-counter medications like loratadine or cetirizine that usually
do not cause drowsiness
• Keep your windows closed during peak
pollen season. You can track pollen counts online.
• Clean pets before they enter the house so
that they don't carry pollen into the home
• Do not dry clothes outside where they can
pick up pollen
• Wear a mask or nasal filters when mowing
the lawn to prevent allergens from getting into the nose
• If prescription medications and nasal
sprays do not help much or if long-term relief from severe allergies is
desired, consider getting allergy shots, which can provide long lasting
relief with four to five years of treatment
