Chronic allergies vs. seasonal allergies

Allergies are immune system responses to specific airborne substances, foods, or chemicals.

Common allergy symptoms include:

• Itchy, watery eyes
  
  
• Sneezing
  
  
• Headache
  
  
• Runny or stuffy nose
  
  
• Sore throat
  
  
• Dark circles under the eyes
  
  
• Itchy feeling in the mouth or throat
  
  

Chronic allergies are caused by prolonged exposure to allergens such as dust mites, and mold. Seasonal allergies, commonly known as hay fever, are triggered by pollen or mold spores. Many trees, grasses, and weeds contain small and light pollens that are easily carried by the wind, causing allergy symptoms to flare up in the spring and fall.

OTCs and alternative therapies for allergy relief

While you can't cure allergies with medications, you have options for relieving the symptoms. Prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medicines can treat allergies. Many over-the-counter medicines are much less expensive than prescription drugs. Some may cause side effects, so talk to your doctor before taking any allergy medicine.

Three basic types of allergy medicines:

1. Antihistamines - Highly effective in countering allergy symptoms, antihistamines block "histamine," which is released when you're exposed to an allergen. They reduce sneezing, runny nose, and itching and work best before you're exposed to an allergen.
   
   
2. Decongestants - By opening nasal passages, decongestants improve drainage and temporarily reduce swelling that causes nasal obstruction. Decongestants can be pills, nose sprays, or nose drops.
   
   
3. Nasal Sprays - While some sprays help with breathing, others have additional therapeutic purposes. Saline nasal sprays clear the sinuses of offending allergens, and others can reduce symptoms by preventing allergic reactions
   
   

All three types of allergy medicines are available over-the-counter and by prescription. Some may cause side effects such as dry mouth, drowsiness or feeling jittery.

• Lifestyle changes - People with allergies to dust, mold, and animal dander can benefit from removing carpets, vacuuming frequently, choosing allergen-reducing bedding, and limiting pets' access to sleeping areas.
  
  
• Probiotics and enzymes - Probiotics may help control food allergies because they can improve digestion. Digestive enzymes may help further break down of undigested protein. Check with your doctor for more information about these alternatives and visit the Health Library on MyHumana at www.humana.com.

Use Flexible spending account funds for allergy testing and OTC's

Depending on the type of health plan you have, allergy testing and over-the-counter medicines may not be covered. You can use your Flexible Spending Account (FSA) funds to pay out-of-pocket costs for allergy tests and OTCs. When you're enrolling for benefits next year, be sure to take these treatments into account when figuring how much to contribute to your FSA.

Bottom line:

Allergies can be a serious heath threat, but many treatments are available. Using FSA funds to buy over-the-counter medicines can help you reduce healthcare expenses — just be sure to talk to your doctor about the best treatment for you.

Additional resources:

American Lung Association

American College Health Association: National College Health Assessment (ACHA-NCHA) Web Summary