Treating Seasonal Allergies

The Clinic at Gardens of Somerset Now Open to the Public

SPRING IS HERE, WARMER WEATHER is on the horizon, plants are blooming and pollen is in the air - which can be bad news for those that suffer from allergic rhinitis (better known as seasonal allergies). Elizabeth Hoskins, nurse practitioner at The Clinic at Gardens of Somerset said, “We are seeing many patients with rhinitis, or inflammation of the nasal passages. This inflammation can cause a variety of annoying symptoms, including sneezing, itching, nasal congestion, runny nose, and postnasal drip (the sensation that mucus is draining from the sinuses down the back of the throat).”

Allergic rhinitis affects people at all ages, and the severity of symptoms tends to vary throughout a person’s life. “Right now there is an influx of pollen in the air, which seems to have triggered many cases of seasonal allergic rhinitis,” said Hoskins. Although the term “rhinitis” refers only to the nasal symptoms, many people also have symptoms that affect the eyes, throat, and ears. Sleep may be disrupted as well. Symptoms may include the following:

NOSE – Watery nasal discharge, blocked nasal passages, sneezing, nasal itching, postnasal drip, loss of taste, facial pressure or pain

THROAT AND EARS – Sore throat, hoarse voice, congestion or popping of the ears, itching of the throat or ears

SLEEP – Mouth breathing, frequent awakening, daytime fatigue, trouble doing normal activities.

Identifying seasonal allergies is important, as well as ruling out other illnesses that may cause similar symptoms. “While avoidance of triggers is an important step in treating rhinitis, it’s not always possible in Northeast Louisiana,” said Hoskins. “Thankfully, we have options like nasal sprays which is one of our first-line treatments for the symptoms of allergic rhinitis.” Nasal glucocorticoids have few side effects and dramatically relieve symptoms in most people. If a patient has severe symptoms, a nasal decongestant may be prescribed before starting a nasal steroid to reduce swelling.

There are many options to treating those suffering from seasonal allergies, and The Clinic at Gardens of Somerset is here to assist those looking for relief. Similar to the mission of the Gardens of Somerset, their goal is to offer integrated care to the residents while also inviting the community onto the campus for primary care services. For more information on the services offered at The Clinic at Gardens of Somerset from Integrated Care Professionals, or to schedule an appointment with Elizabeth, call (318)306-2389. The clinic is located at 340 Lonewa Road in Monroe.