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| March 29 | |
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Allergies |
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Now that spring is here, allergies have millions of us itching and sneezing. Believe it or not, allergy symptoms are a misguided way of our body trying to protect us. During the change in season, tiny particles called pollen are released from trees, weeds, and grasses. When pollen enters the nose and throat, these particles are seen as foreign invaders by the body. To fight the invader, immune cells discharge chemicals, such as histamines, which cause the itching, sneezing, and watery eyes many of us know too well. If you can, try to avoid the pollen, by closing windows and using air filters, for example. But many of us will need to do more. Ideally, you want to choose medicine that will best treat your specific symptoms. If you're buying an over-the-counter medicine, look for the active ingredient. Some products have more than one, so it's important to read the labels to make sure you don't combine drugs with the same ingredients. Antihistamines are considered the first line defense against allergy symptoms, since they attack the histamines that cause those symptoms. Over-the-counter antihistamines can usually make you drowsy, and as I reported previously, impair you even if you don't feel drowsy. Certain prescription antihistamines are non-sedating; however, these can cause side effects if taken with certain drugs, so make sure your doctor knows about all the drugs you are taking. Many allergy preparations will also include a decongestant. Decongestants will help to relieve nasal congestion sinus discomfort by helping the nasal passages drain. Nasal decongestants should be used for no more than about three days, or a rebound effect can occur, making the congestion and swelling worse, rather than better. Decongestants can also raise blood pressure, so people with high blood pressure should read the label and generally avoid these medicines. Nasal steroid sprays stop the allergic reaction as well, and can be especially effective in reducing mucous and nasal swelling. The newer ones can be used just once daily, and are usually very effective, especially when used with anti-histamines. Cromolyn sodium, given in a nasal spray, is now sold over-the-counter. It can actually prevent allergic reactions if started about two weeks before allergy season begins. Remember, always read the label of any medicine you take to avoid side effects; some of the medications can be unsafe for people with certain medical conditions. And make sure to tell your doctor about all of the medicines you take, including over-the-counter medicines and supplements, to avoid interactions with prescription medications.
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I've tried everything and I'm still having symptoms. What can I do? It may be time to visit the allergist, who can best pinpoint what you're allergic to and recommend other treatment. I've had what seems to be a cold that has lasted for weeks. Could it be an allergy? It very well might be. It's sometimes hard to tell the difference between a cold and an allergy, since many of the symptoms are similar. Here are some clues: Colds - Last about 7-10 days - Nasal discharge thick, yellow Both colds and allergies can progress. Colds may lead to pneumonia in some people, especially those with depressed immune systems. Allergies can lead to sinus infection. If symptoms do not get better or worsen, or fever occurs, a physician should be consulted. Resources: National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Watery Eyes? Runny Nose? Time to Spring into Action Against Seasonal Allergies |
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