Springtime is a time for beautiful blooming flowers, green grass growing and warmer temperatures. Unfortunately for some, spring means itchy red eyes, a constant runny nose, sneezing and wheezing. With more than 50 million Americans who suffer from hay-fever allergies, you are not alone in your misery.
Allergists are predicting this allergy season to be one of the worst in decades. The reason why is because the month of March was unusually dry and warm, so the trees began budding early and are already releasing high pollen counts.
But there is hope. There are a number of other things you can do to control allergy symptoms, such as limiting your time outdoors (on days when pollen counts are high) and keeping your house and car windows closed to keep pollen out.
Using air conditioning is particularly helpful because it filters the outside air before it enters your home. Activities like mowing your lawn or raking leaves can also stir up pollens and molds and you should wash your hair after going outdoors. Likewise, it’s not a good idea to hang sheets or clothes outside to dry, as they can act as nets to catch outdoor irritants.
In addition, if you are proactive, medicine can greatly reduce symptoms of allergies. Taking an over-the-counter medicine like a non-drowsy antihistamine or a nasal steroid spray can significantly improve everyday life.
Of course if symptoms persist, always take the initiative to seek medical advice. Castle Rock has several allergists that can help you minimize allergy attacks. Talk to them about other prescriptions that may help alleviate some of your symptoms.
Lastly, allergy shots, or immunotherapy, are another option if allergy medicine doesn’t work or you have symptoms for more than 3 months a year. With immunotherapy, you are given a shot once or twice a week of whatever you’re allergic to—pollen, dust, and mold for example—so they can build your immunity. Over time they increase the amount you are given until your body no longer triggers an allergic reaction.
Having been an allergy sufferer for years, I can attest to the fact that allergy shots have worked wonders.
For more information, National Jewish Health has always been a leader in allergy research: http://www.nationaljewish.org/healthinfo/conditions/allergy/
For Colorado pollen counts for your town or city visit Pollen.com: http://www.pollen.com/allergy-weather-forecast.asp
