Seasonal Allergies: Don’t Let Them Get You Down

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22 Apr 16
Image of Dad holding his son in a park with trees and pollen

Spring is in the air and so are billions of tiny pollen grains that may trigger allergies! This condition is called seasonal allergic rhinitis, or “hay fever.”

Symptoms include:

  • Sneezing
  • Itchy eyes, throat, ears or nose
  • Sinus pressure
  • Stuffy or runny nose
  • Watery eyes

Avoiding your allergy triggers is the best way to reduce symptoms.

  • Limit outdoor activities when pollen levels are high
  • Close windows to prevent pollen from entering your home or car
  • Take a shower, wash your hair, and change clothing after being outdoors

There are also many treatment options. They include:

  • Over-the-counter antihistamines: short acting (Benadryl) and long acting (Claritin, Zyrtec, Allegra)
  • Prescription medications: allergy eye drops, nose sprays, and antihistamines
  • Allergy testing to identify your allergy triggers (performed by a board-certified allergist)
  • Allergen immunotherapy or “allergy shots” to help you become less sensitive to your allergic triggers (performed by a board-certified allergist)

St. Barnabas Hospital offers allergy services for both adults and children. To schedule an appointment, please call 718-960-3730.

 

Alyson W. Smith, MD is the Director of Pediatric Allergy


Dr. Alyson W. Smith