EL CENTRO – As spring arrives, so does allergy season, bringing discomfort for millions of Americans who suffer from allergies and asthma. According to Dr. John Strong, Chief Medical Officer at Legacy MD Medical Group, this time of year—particularly March through May—marks the peak of allergy symptoms, with a second wave often appearing in the fall.
“Allergy season can trigger a range of symptoms from sneezing and itchy eyes to full-blown asthma attacks,” said Dr. Strong. “Understanding what’s causing those symptoms is key to effective treatment.” Allergic rhinitis—commonly referred to as hay fever—affects approximately 15% of the population, but Dr. Strong notes that vasomotor rhinitis, a condition where irritants like smoke, weather changes, or perfumes cause nasal congestion, affects nearly everyone at some point.
While allergic rhinitis is associated with itching, sneezing, and a runny nose, vasomotor rhinitis primarily causes congestion without the classic allergy symptoms. “People often mistake congestion for allergies,” Dr. Strong explained. “But it’s important to distinguish between the two to avoid unnecessary or ineffective treatments.”
Treatment options for allergies and asthma begin with understanding the duration, severity, and triggers of symptoms. Many patients benefit from blood testing for allergens, especially if they suspect reactions to common triggers such as pollen, pet dander, or dust mites. In the clinical setting, providers often use spirometry—a lung function test—for patients who don’t respond well to treatment or have a history of smoking or more severe asthma. For allergy sufferers, shots are still an option; however, only about 5% of patients truly need them.
Common over-the-counter treatments include antihistamines such as Claritin, Zyrtec, Allegra, and Xyzal, along with nasal steroid sprays like Flonase (fluticasone). A helpful tip: when using nasal sprays, aim the nozzle to the side of the nostril instead of straight back to improve effectiveness and reduce irritation.
Air purifiers can also be useful, especially in households with allergens like pets or dust. While decongestant nasal sprays (like Afrin) can offer short-term relief, they should not be used long-term to avoid rhinitis medicamentosa, a condition that can lead to worsening congestion. For patients with asthma, treatments often involve inhaled corticosteroids, such as budesonide, paired with formoterol, a long-acting bronchodilator. These combinations are particularly effective for those who need more than a simple rescue inhaler like albuterol.
In more severe cases, advanced therapies like biologics, including Fasenra and Xolair, may be recommended. Dr. Strong cautions against long-lasting steroid injections due to potential side effects. “We want to avoid over-reliance on medications like long-term steroid shots,” Dr. Strong stated. “Instead, we aim for a balanced approach that keeps patients safe and breathing comfortably.” Additionally, he advises asthma patients to avoid medications like Benadryl, which can cause unwanted drowsiness and may not effectively target respiratory symptoms.
While allergy shots still offer lasting relief for a select group of patients, they are seldom the first-line treatment for most. With the right combination of evaluation, medication, and education, it’s possible for many to manage symptoms effectively during allergy season. “Spring should be about enjoying life—not just surviving it,” Dr. Strong emphasized. “By identifying triggers and tailoring treatment, we can help our patients breathe easier and stay active through the season.”
For more information or to schedule an allergy or asthma consultation, contact Legacy MD Medical Group at (760) 352-2551.
