Tips to Manage the Allergy Symptoms that Beautiful Weather Brings

Though we all love the sun and fun that springtime yields, nobody enjoys the allergy symptoms that come with the warm weather.  Allergies are especially troublesome for us in Michigan, and Detroit is ranked as the 25^th worst city for spring allergies this year.  In addition, 2013 is being recognized as a year worse than past years by some experts.

So, what can you do to prevent allergy symptoms?

Avoiding known allergens may be one of the most effective methods, but the least
fun.  You can stay indoors on warm, breezy days and days where the pollen and mold count is high.  There are several allergen or pollen maps and reports available online including the National Allergy Bureau’s website.  You can delegate garden, lawn moving and yard work to others, or use a mask while performing these outdoor activities.  If you are like most people, however, these avoidance strategies are less than ideal.

Several over-the-counter remedies exist including both oral and nasal antihistamines, decongestants and combination medications. There are non-drowsy formulas available for daytime use, and more sedating medications, like diphenhydramine, that can be taken at night.  In addition, a nasal saline rinse or
irrigation can be highly efficacious.  When used exactly as directed, these nasal saline therapies cause little discomfort and great relief of symptoms. If you follow the manufacturer’s instructions by using only the saline packets that come with the kit; sterilizing the equipment between uses; and using distilled vs. tap water, the risk of infection or adverse reactions from such preparations is virtually zero.  In addition, there are over-the-counter herbal therapies that you can discuss with
your physician.

Also, your doctor can prescribe prescription strength allergy medications.  If you are not satisfied with one brand of allergy medication, it is important to try another one as each individual responds best to different medications. You may need several medications to control all of your symptoms such as allergy eye drops, nasal spray, and an oral antihistamine. 

Lastly, you can make changes at home like investing in a HEPA filter and hypoallergenic pillows, and removing carpeting.  Washing your hair at night can also remove allergens that have becometrapped in your hair and may collect on your bedding while you sleep.  A combination of these strategies will work
best to keep allergies from ruining your spring.

Dr. Dooley is a Family Medicine Expert of Northville-Novi Family Medicine and face of Channel 7 WXYZ’s Wellness Wednesdays.  She can be contacted at drdooley@drdooleymd.com