Itchy eyes, stuffy nose and constant sneezing—if you’re suffering from spring allergies, you’re not alone. More than 35 million Americans suffer from seasonal allergies, their bodies reacting to triggers from pollen to grass and more.
Allergy symptoms include runny nose and post-nasal drip, nasal congestion, sinus inflammation, coughing, sneezing, watery and itchy eyes, and itchy ears. While allergies typically surface during childhood, symptoms can begin at any age and may appear for the first time during adulthood.
10 Steps to Control Spring Allergies
To control spring allergies, which are prevalent from March through May, Scott Reef of Reef Family Pharmacy suggests the following:
• Keep your windows and doors closed, and sweep or vacuum outside entryways to avoid tracking pollen into the house. Use a HEPA filter vacuum bag to avoid spreading dust and replace vacuum bags frequently.
• Change the filters on your air conditioner, air purifier, dehumidifier and vent registers.
• Have your carpet professionally cleaned annually.
• Avoid using vaporizers or humidifiers. They don’t help with allergies and can lead to mold and dust mites in your home.
• When traveling in the car, keep your windows closed and set the ventilation to recirculate.
• Change your clothes when you come home, since they will carry traces of pollen and other allergens.
• Pay attention to air quality reports. Smart phones now have an app that gives regular pollen reports.
• If possible, avoid the outdoors when allergens peak such as in the early morning, or when it is very windy.
• Cover your mouth with a scarf or an allergen mask when you’re outside. Wear sunglasses to keep pollen off your lashes and your lids.
• Buy yourself some relief with an over-the-counter medication to control your symptoms.
If over-the-counter medicines aren’t bringing relief, see a doctor. You may be a candidate for a prescription medication.
Prescription medications are available in three forms: antihistamines, nasal steroid sprays, and medicines targeting allergy-related chemicals called leukotrienes. Allergy shots also are an option, and reduce the need for medication.
Reef Family Pharmacy offers a free delivery service for prescriptions in Cape May County.
For more information, call (609) 465-0004 or visit www.ReefFamilyPharmacy.com.
Cape May – Governor Murphy says he doesn't know anything about the drones and doesn't know what they are doing but he does know that they are not dangerous. Does anyone feel better now?
