Pollen counts are soaring and so are your allergies

If you a have a stuffy nose, congestion and have been coughing all night long you may have allergies. This is especially true if you have itchy watery eyes, itchy nose and ears and a scratchy throat.

This allergy season usually starts in March and ends in June. Allergy season started early and may not end until June with pollen counts ranging at historical highs up to 12. The ubiquitous pollen from grass, trees, orange blossoms and ragweed are causing most of your symptoms. You may think your immune system is not strong enough to fight allergies; however, it’s just the opposite. Allergies are a coefficient of an overactive immune response to pollen.

Treatment

mist as well.

Although, there are some non-sedating antihistamines, which also contain pseudoephedrine, a decongestant. However, they can be problematic for anyone with hypertension or heart problems causing palpitations and elevated blood pressure. There are also prescription nasal sprays like Omnaris, Nasonex, Veramyst and Dymista, which can be beneficial.

Singular is a pill that suppresses allergy symptoms by reducing a chemical that causes swelling and inflammation in the respiratory tract.

Prevention

Perhaps, the most dramatic relief can be received with cortisone by either an injection of Kenalog or a prednisone prescription. This can be helpful but not on a regular basis. Perhaps at the end of the day prevention is best.

So keep your windows closed, air conditioning on while at home or riding in your vehicle. Also reduce the carpet in your house, wash your pets with long hair to keep pollen out and don’t expose yourself to windy days, particularly at night or in the early morning.

Dr. Art Mollen is an osteopathic family physician and a health, fitness and preventive medicine expert. Reach him at 480-656-0016 or askdrartmollen@ gmail.com.