HealHealth News

Surviving Springtime Allergies

Judging by the number of boys who visit the Health Office daily with allergy symptoms, spring allergy season is in full swing. Seasonal allergic rhinitis, also known as “hay fever,” affects millions of people in the United States. The culprit at this time of year is tree pollen, which causes the most severe allergy symptoms on dry, hot, windy days; and mold spores.

Here are the symptoms of allergic rhinitis:

• Sneezing
• Runny nose with thin, watery discharge
• Nasal congestion
• Itching of the eyes, nose, throat, and roof of the mouth
• Coughing, often worse at night, and postnasal drip
• Frequent throat clearing
• Dark circles under the eyes “allergic shiners,” caused by sinus congestion
• Watery, red, itchy eyes accompanied by swelling of the eye area
• The “allergic salute,” persistent upward rubbing of the nose that causes a crease mark    on the nose.

Here are some ways to lessen exposure and to minimize the effects of pollens and molds that trigger allergy symptoms:

• Keep windows closed to maintain a pollen-free home.
• Use air conditioning and a dehumidifier to cool and dry the air.
• Pollen counts are highest between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m. Limit outdoor activities between those times.
• Keep your car windows closed when traveling.
• Stay indoors on windy days when the air is filled with pollen.
• The best time to go outside is after rain, when there is a minimal amount of pollen in the air.
• Use allergy-proof covers for your bedding.
• Make sure your vacuum cleaner has a HEPA filter.
• Wash sheets and blankets in hot water.

If nothing you do seems to be relieving your allergy symptoms, speak to your physician about treatment with medications such as: Nasal corticosteroid spray, including Nasonex and Flonase; antihistamines, such as over-the-counter Benadryl and Claritin or prescription Allegra and Zyrtec; or decongestants, such as Sudafed. If allergies are severe, disabling and/or unresponsive to medications, a referral to an allergy specialist to discuss allergy shots or desensitization should be considered

SOURCE: American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology: www.aaaai.org

 

If you have questions or concerns about any health issues, please contact
Annie Haddad, R.N., the School Nurse at 369-0058, extension 458.