Spring Allergies: More Than Just Seasonal Sniffles
By Dr. Phebe Alley
The saying is “April showers bring May flowers,” but spring brings more than just blooms. For many, it also brings itchy eyes, runny noses, sneezing, and a chronic cough! If you experience these symptoms, you’re not alone. An estimated 30-35% of Americans suffer from allergic rhinitis, commonly known as seasonal allergies.
What Causes Seasonal Allergies?
Allergic rhinitis is an immunoglobulin-mediated process. When you inhale allergens like grass, dust mites, or ragweed, they trigger your body’s immune response, resulting in those familiar allergy symptoms.
Common Allergens Include:
- Trees, grass, weeds, and ragweed pollen
- Mold in damp areas like shower curtains and basements
- Dander found in the skin, saliva, and urine of furry pets
- Dust and dust mites found in bedding, mattresses, carpeting, and furniture
How to Avoid Allergens
Several simple practices can help reduce your exposure:
For outdoor allergens:
- Stay inside on dry, windy days
- Keep windows and doors closed during high pollen seasons
- Shower or bathe before bedtime to remove allergens from your skin and hair
For indoor allergens:
- Mop and vacuum regularly
- Remove houseplants and clean shower curtains frequently to reduce mold
- Use a dehumidifier to lower humidity (less of a problem in Idaho)
- Reduce pet dander by using allergen-resistant bedding and bathing pets often
- Minimize dust mites by removing drapes, feather pillows, soft furniture, non-washable bedding, and soft toys
Medication Options
Always consult your primary care provider about which medication option is best for you. However, some common treatments include:
- Over-the-counter nasal sprays (most effective for many people)
- Over-the-counter antihistamines (most useful when taken before allergen exposure)
- Salt water nasal rinses using boiled or distilled water (can help with sinus symptoms and may be tried before medications)
- For severe allergies, prescription medications and allergy shots are available
Spring is a beautiful time in Idaho, and everyone deserves to enjoy the wonderful weather without suffering from allergic rhinitis symptoms!
By Dr. Phebe Alley
The saying is “April showers bring May flowers,” but spring brings more than just blooms. For many, it also brings itchy eyes, runny noses, sneezing, and a chronic cough! If you experience these symptoms, you’re not alone. An estimated 30-35% of Americans suffer from allergic rhinitis, commonly known as seasonal allergies.
What Causes Seasonal Allergies?
Allergic rhinitis is an immunoglobulin-mediated process. When you inhale allergens like grass, dust mites, or ragweed, they trigger your body’s immune response, resulting in those familiar allergy symptoms.
Common Allergens Include:
- Trees, grass, weeds, and ragweed pollen
- Mold in damp areas like shower curtains and basements
- Dander found in the skin, saliva, and urine of furry pets
- Dust and dust mites found in bedding, mattresses, carpeting, and furniture
How to Avoid Allergens
Several simple practices can help reduce your exposure:
For outdoor allergens:
- Stay inside on dry, windy days
- Keep windows and doors closed during high pollen seasons
- Shower or bathe before bedtime to remove allergens from your skin and hair
For indoor allergens:
- Mop and vacuum regularly
- Remove houseplants and clean shower curtains frequently to reduce mold
- Use a dehumidifier to lower humidity (less of a problem in Idaho)
- Reduce pet dander by using allergen-resistant bedding and bathing pets often
- Minimize dust mites by removing drapes, feather pillows, soft furniture, non-washable bedding, and soft toys
Medication Options
Always consult your primary care provider about which medication option is best for you. However, some common treatments include:
- Over-the-counter nasal sprays (most effective for many people)
- Over-the-counter antihistamines (most useful when taken before allergen exposure)
- Salt water nasal rinses using boiled or distilled water (can help with sinus symptoms and may be tried before medications)
- For severe allergies, prescription medications and allergy shots are available
Spring is a beautiful time in Idaho, and everyone deserves to enjoy the wonderful weather without suffering from allergic rhinitis symptoms!