Doctors give tips for dealing with fall allergies
It’s the fall season, meaning we are now dealing with new allergies. From watery eyes to runny noses, it can be challenging for people.
If you have itchy eyes, a runny nose and have been sneezing, chances are you may be battling fall allergies. Dr. Nora Perkins is an ear, nose and throat doctor. She says summer allergies, like ragweed, are extending into the fall season.
“We are also now having are normal fall allergens like mold, which are increasing. So, you sort of have both of those different allergies contributing to those symptoms,” said Dr. Perkins, with Albany ENT & Allergy Services.
To prevent allergies, Dr. Perkins says it is important that you try to limit your exposure.
“If you are outside and you are raking leaves, you might be able to wear a mask. You might be able to do a sinus rinse when you come inside, take a shower, remove the clothes you are wearing,” said Dr. Perkins.
To treat your symptoms, doctors recommend over the counter medication, like Claritin, Zyrtec or Allegra.
Dr. Scott Osur is a certified allergy and asthma consultant. He says a big mistake that people make is they take medicine only when they have symptoms, instead of routinely.
“It’s very important to start an allergy regimen medication before the pollen exposure. It can be more than helpful and to continue it daily,” said Dr. Osur.
Dr. Osur says using nasal steroid sprays, like Flonase can be very helpful.
“People are afraid to use these nasal steroid sprays because they are steroids, but the systemic absorption is so minimal that it is safe to use medicine like Flonase or Nasacort for months and months in a row,” said Dr. Osur.
If you are still dealing with symptoms after you take the medication, both doctors say you should see a specialist.
No Byline Policy
Editorial Guidelines
Corrections Policy
Source