Help! Survive Allergy Season with Dr. Lomasney

The duration of allergy symptoms depends on what you're allergic to.

• Tree pollen peaks in early spring.
• Grass pollen in late spring.
• Weed pollen in the fall.

If you're allergic to all three, you could experience symptoms from mid-March to October. Generally, each pollen season lasts about four to six weeks of high pollen counts.

• Antihistamines provide relatively quick relief, usually within 1-2 days.
• Nasal steroids are over-the-counter sprays that can be used in conjunction with antihistamines for better relief.
• For mild symptoms or symptoms that are not daily, take them as needed. If you're using them more than 50% of the time, take them daily throughout the season to prevent symptoms.
• Side effects may include fogginess or sleepiness. Try different antihistamines, as tolerance between medications varies.
• Taking Allergy Medication at Night vs. Morning:
  
  • 24-hour antihistamines can be taken at any time.
  • If medication makes you sleepy, take it at night and it will still give you relief the next day.
• Allergy Shots (Immunotherapy): Allergy shots retrain your immune system to tolerate allergens, potentially providing a cure. Consider allergy shots if:
  • You want to reduce long-term medication use.
  • You experience side effects from medications.
  • Your allergies trigger asthma or skin conditions.
  • You have pet allergies.

*Honey Myth: Local honey, while tasty, does not alleviate allergies. The pollen that causes allergies is wind-pollinated, not bee-pollinated.

Pollen clings to clothes, hair, and skin.

• Shower and change clothes after being outside.
• Avoid rubbing your eyes. Use a cold compress or damp paper towel instead.
• Keep windows closed. Even though a breeze is nice, windy days have high pollen counts.
• Avoid early morning activities. Pollen counts are highest in the early morning.
• Pet Allergies and Pollen:
  • Pets bring pollen indoors.
  • Bathe pets frequently to remove pollen.
  • Avoid walking pets during high pollen count times (early morning).

• If over-the-counter medications aren't providing enough relief.
• If you want more information or alternative treatment options.

Seek Immediate Medical Attention for:

• Asthma-like symptoms: coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, or chest tightness, especially on high pollen days.
• Severe breathing difficulties: go to Urgent Care or your nearest emergency department.
• Mild symptoms: start with your primary care provider or an allergist.