Sneezing, itchy eyes, and cough
are triggered by Allergens, such as pollen,
dust mites, animals, and molds. At least one third of the population (one
out of three people) have these symptoms. The diagnosis is “hayfever”,
or in medical terms, allergic rhinitis.
Some people just decide to suffer through the symptoms, others take over the
counter medications, but you are here to learn about more effective treatments.
Avoid what causes your allergies. Sometimes this is possible (cats, food), and sometimes difficult (pollen, molds). Measures can be taken (minimize dust mite exposure). For pollen sufferers, air conditioning helps – home and car. Also, the pollen is highest outdoors and in parks and ball fields and on windy days. The highest pollen counts are late afternoons.
Prescription nose sprays. These medications are more effective than antihistamines and help relieve 85% of the typical allergy symptoms. They are very safe, and become even more effective with continuous use. For best results, they should be started before the onset of the allergy season (examples Flonase, Nasacort, Nasonex, Rhinocort AQ).
Antihistamines– we have safe antihistamines available and these alone give adequate relief for 50% of patients (examples– Allegra, Claritin, Zyrtec). Eye drops are helpful (Patonal, Zaditor, Alrex).
Available are much stronger medications, such as prednisone or prelone syrup. These are the most effective anti-allergic medications but if used for too long or too frequently do have side effects.
Allergy Immunotherapy, or allergy shots. This gives the most effective relief, especially for patients who do not do well with medications. This approach is the only treatment that offers the possibility of avoiding medications, and giving many years of prolonged relief. However, it is a commitment, and most of our patients receive the injections for 3 to 5 years. Click here for more information about allergy shots.