Wellness Tips: Springtime Sniffles

Tips for Managing Your Springtime Allergies

Many Iowans are plagued by seasonal sniffles, which can be sent into overdrive during the spring. Tim McCoy, D.O., MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center Family Medicine Chair, shares the basics of seasonal allergies and ways to lessen their effects.

WHAT ARE SEASONAL ALLERGIES?

The generic term “allergies” can mean different things to everyone. Patients with allergic rhinitis – the diagnosis most have – can experience seasonal effects because of pollen from trees, plants and grass.

HOW MANY PEOPLE ARE AFFECTED BYSEASONAL ALLERGIES?

Allergic rhinitis is an incredibly common condition. Some studies say it affects 10-30 percent of children and adults in the U.S. and can be tied to family history or genetics.

IS ALLERGIC RHINITIS PRESENT AT BIRTH?

Seasonal allergies are very uncommon in children under 2 years old. It usually takes a few years of exposure to develop the condition.

CAN PEOPLE DO ANYTHING TO PREVENT SEASONAL ALLERGIES?

There aren’t many completed studies about preventing allergic rhinitis. There have been some small studies indicating prenatal probiotics can decrease the risk of eczema, which is an allergic-type skin condition, but further research is needed to confirm the effectiveness.

WHAT CAN PEOPLE WHO SUFFER FROM SEASONAL ALLERGIES DO TO LESSEN THE SEVERITY?

There are a variety of medications and treatments available, so patients should consult their family doctor about their specific situations.

Sometimes over-the-counter medications, prescription oral medications, nasal sprays and eye drops can be effective. Some patients benefit from scheduled allergy injections to make themselves “non” allergic to the specific allergens.

The best way to prevent seasonal allergy symptoms is to reduce exposure to pollens. Monitoring the pollen forecast and staying inside at times when the pollen count is highest – between 5 and 10 a.m. and again at dusk – is a good way to limit exposure. In the spring, people with allergies may find relief by keeping their car and home windows closed and showering or washing their clothes after spending time outside.

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