Springtime is also time for Allergies

Allergies affect the immune system and cause an overreaction to allergens, the substances that cause allergies. The purpose of your immune system is to protect your body from bacteria and viruses that can make you sick. When you have an allergy, however, your immune system mistakenly thinks a harmless substance is actually harmful to your body and it triggers an allergic reaction.

Allergies affect about 50 million people in the United States. Both genetics and the environment can play a role in the likelihood that you will develop allergies. If one or both of your parents has allergies, you are much more likely to have them as well. Most allergies develop in childhood, however, it is not uncommon for allergies to develop later in life as well. Most people with allergies have more than one allergy.

Indoor and outdoor allergies, also known as seasonal allergies and hay fever, affect about 40 million people in the United States. Seasonal allergies typically begin to affect people during the Spring, and pollen is the culprit. Trees, grasses and weeds, are also major triggers for seasonal allergies.

Allergy symptoms can vary from one person to the next, however, the following is a list of common seasonal allergy symptoms:

• Runny nose
• Watery eyes
• Sneezing
• Coughing
• Itchy eyes and nose
• Dark circles under the eyes

If you think you may have allergies, see your doctor. He or she may perform allergy tests or refer you to an allergist.

Unfortunately, there is no cure for allergies. With proper prevention and treatment, however, allergies can be managed. There are a number of over-the-counter and prescription drugs available to treat the symptoms of seasonal allergies.

• Antihistamines: reduce sneezing, sniffling, and itching
• Decongestants: relieve congestion and swelling by clearing mucus from the nasal passages.
• Nasal spray decongestants: relieve congestion and may work more quickly than oral decongestants.
• Sodium nasal spray: prevents the release of histamine before it triggers allergy symptoms.
• Eye drops: relieve itchy, watery eyes.

It’s a good idea to consult with your doctor when taking any medications, even if they are available over-the-counter. Prescription drugs and allergy shots are also available for those who suffer from seasonal allergies. Although allergy shots are not effective for everyone, they can help prevent allergy symptoms for years in some cases.

The best way to avoid allergy symptoms is to avoid the allergens that cause the allergic reaction. Here are some tips on getting some relief for your seasonal allergy symptoms:

• Remain indoors when the pollen count is very high. Pollen counts are typically higher in the mornings.
• Keep doors and windows shut in your house or when you are in your car.
• Take off your shoes when you go inside.
• Clean or replace the air filters in your house routinely. In addition, try using a HEPA air filter.
• Wipe off pets when they come inside so they are not bringing pollen indoors.
• Do not hang your clothes outside to dry.
• Clean bookshelves, vents, and other places where pollen collects.
• Wash your hair after you go outside.
• Vacuum your house twice a week.

Information from WebMD