Feeling Groggy? Under the Weather? Allergies Might Be the Cause

How can you tell if you or your child is having trouble sleeping because of the changes of daylight savings time or if the issue is something more? They may be suffering from seasonal allergies.

Seasonal allergies, or as it is clinically known, allergic rhinitis, is a common chronic condition affecting millions of adults and children across the nation, with onset symptoms beginning in early childhood.
People with these allergies are typically affected by seasonal allergen occurring in spring, summer, and fall, commonly from mold spores or pollen from tree, grass and weeds. Symptoms often include itchy nose, itchy eyes, itchy throat, sneezing, runny nose, stuffy nose or feeling tired due to poor sleep. When allergies are severe enough, it can even negatively impact your quality of life.

During the upcoming pollen allergy season, there are few steps you can take which can help you reduce your allergy symptoms:

Limit Exposure

Try staying indoors when possible, especially when pollen counts are high or at their peak, and rely on air conditioning to keep pollen from entering your home. When you do go outdoors, wear glasses or sunglasses to prevent pollen from entering your eyes. Wash your hands and face frequently and shampoo hair at bedtime to wash off any accumulated pollen from extended exposure outdoors. Finally, be conscious to wash bedding once per week using hot water to limit additional exposure.

Seek Medication

For persistent or chronic symptoms, medications for allergies such as intranasal steroid and antihistamines are prominently used. These medications can help better manage persistent symptoms.

Consider Immunotherapy

For those who want to avoid chronic/long term medication dependence, immunotherapy may be recommended. Immunotherapy is similar to the process of getting a flu shot in that patients receive a gradually larger dose of allergens, which allows natural antibodies to counter that potential allergen. You can get allergy testing done to identify the culprits which are triggering your allergy symptoms. Skin testing is an easy and sensitive method in figuring out your allergy; check with your allergist to discuss the ideal treatment option for you.

To learn more about ENTA, find a local office or book an appointment, download the “ENT and Allergy Associates” mobile app, visit http://www.entandallergy.com or call 1-855-ENTA-DOC.

Jennifer S. Lee, MD
ENT and Allergy Associates