Wellbeing: Allergy Management

Wellbeing: Managing Springtime Allergies

by Megan F. Kurtz

After a long winter season, nothing feels better than enjoying time outside in beautiful spring weather – unless you are prone to allergy problems. Spring pollen season usually starts in late January to mid-February and lasts through May, and millions of people in the U.S. suffer from related symptoms including sneezing, congestion, sinus pressure, headaches, itchy/watery eyes and runny nose every year.

Dr. Sonia Kamboj, Junior League of New Orleans Active member and founder of Breathe Easy Allergy & Asthma, recently shared a few tips on how to best manage seasonal allergies:

1. Reduce your exposure to allergy triggers. It is best to avoid outdoor activity between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on high pollen days, Dr. Kamboj suggests. “We recommend keeping windows shut and showering after any outdoor exposure during springtime,” she adds.

2. Try an over-the-counter remedy. Start taking allergy medications before allergy season begins. If symptoms are not relieved easily with an OTC nasal spray, eye drops or antihistamines, then additional evaluation may be warranted. “We recommend contacting a board-certified allergist to accurately diagnose and treat your allergy symptoms. However, symptoms do not include fever or body aches. If you experience these, please contact your medical provider as flu or COVID-19 testing may be needed,” adds Dr. Kamboj.

3. Keep clothes free of pollen and other irritants. “I recommend washing clothes daily and using free and clear (unscented) soaps and detergents if experiencing skin rashes and irritation,” Dr. Kamboj suggests. This includes taking a shower and washing your hair as soon as you head back inside to limit the amount of pollen you bring into the house.

4. Take extra steps when pollen counts are high. Seasonal allergies tend to flare up when there’s a lot of pollen in the air. Try to avoid outdoor activity early in the morning and on windy days when pollen counts are highest, and close doors and windows at night or any other time pollen counts are high. “Websites like pollen.com can help you track pollen counts for high pollen days,” Dr. Kamboj advises.

Dr. Sonia Kamboj is a board-certified allergist and founder of Breathe Easy Allergy & Asthma. For more information, please visit the clinic website or call the office for an appointment. www.breatheeasyallergy.com (504) 934-8777

Dr. Sonia Kamboj. Photo courtesy of Dr. Sonia Kamboj.