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I had the pleasure of speaking with Joel Galleger, M.D., an allergist with Allergy and Asthma and Nurse Practitioner Anne Ambe also with Allergy and Asthma. As we are all in the midst of the allergy season, I asked the allergy experts about ways to manage the season and the symptoms it brings.
One of Dr. Galleger’s points was that unfortunately we are seeing longer allergy seasons. Nowadays, allergy season begins earlier than it used to. We are seeing higher pollen and ragweed counts and certainly climate change is a key factor. Various parts of the country are often hit harder than other areas.
People often grab tissues as symptoms such as sneezing, runny eyes and nose, itchy skin and throat become unbearable. Be aware, there is a difference between allergies and a cold or sinus infection. Observe when the problems occur. If symptoms occur when one is around possible allergens such as pollen, animals, grass or the like, it is most likely allergies. If the patient has a temperature, it most likely not an allergy event.
Remember that allergens are also triggered by animal dander or fur, insects, mold, trees, grass, and the like. Also, remember that environmental factors such as wildfires, smoke and air pollution can make allergies and asthma worse.
So, how do you manage your allergy problems? Be aware that pollen is worse from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Therefore, if you want to be outside and walk the dog or play, it’s best to engage in activities during the early morning hours or late afternoon is a good time.
Of course, staying inside in air conditioning is a good way to reduce one’s pollen exposure on high pollen days. Stay cool inside and enjoy.
If avoidance of the allergy triggers does not work, one may need to look at medications or even get allergy shots.
There are many over-the-counter medications at your local pharmacy. These medications are effective, but you need to make sure that you research them well. They all have their positive and negative qualities. Some are sedating. Make sure that if you take a decongestant, that it will not increase your blood pressure.
Look into using nasal washes and steroid nasal sprays. Currently, we are seeing a significant increase in their costs. Generic allergy medications are often better buys. Well, there is relief out there. Ask your healthcare provider to recommend the best allergy treatments for you.
Dr. Veita Bland is a board-certified Greensboro physician and hypertension specialist. Dr. Bland’s radio show, “It’s a Matter of Your Health,” can be heard live on Wednesdays, 5:30 p.m. on N.C. A&T State University’s WNAA, 90.1 FM. Listeners may call in and ask questions. The show is replayed on Sirius 142 at 5 p.m. on Wed. Email Dr. Bland at ideas@blandclinicpa.com.
