As spring unfolds, so do the allergies that come with it, leading about 25% of American adults to face sneezing, stuffiness, and itchy eyes. Seasonal allergy season is upon us, which is prompting many to search for relief as they navigate the challenges posed by pollen.
The beginning of spring means that millions across the U.S. may find themselves dealing with uncomfortable allergy symptoms. With symptoms such as sneezing, nasal congestion, and itchy eyes becoming commonplace, healthcare professionals have stepped forward to share their own strategies for managing these pesky seasonal complaints.
Dr. Jackie Eastman, an allergist and immunologist with Corewell Health, is no stranger to the debilitating effects of allergies. "In the spring, I need to shower every night before bed. If I don't get the pollen out of my hair, my eyes are much worse in the morning," she explained. Dr. Eastman is allergic to tree pollen, grass, and weed pollen and uses various medications, including fexofenadine, a corticosteroid nasal spray, and eye drops, in her daily routine.
A fellow allergist, Dr. David Corry from Baylor College of Medicine, has been battling allergies for years. "I have had to stop mowing grass at our Houston house and handed that off to a professional crew years ago," he remarked. His allergies escalated during peak seasons, especially spring going into summer, leading to symptoms severe enough to affect his daily life, including school attendance during his childhood.
For Dr. Basil Kahwash, an assistant professor of medicine at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, the solution came in the form of allergy shots. "The allergy shots have been extremely effective for me," he stated after starting the treatment a year and a half ago. He noted that his dependency on allergy medication has decreased significantly since he began receiving the shots.
Dr. Purvi Parikh, an allergist with Allergy & Asthma Network, emphasizes the importance of being proactive: "I take medicine regularly, even on days I don't particularly feel bad." Her approach involves taking a 24-hour antihistamine to manage her allergies effectively. She suggests that staying ahead of allergy symptoms can make a significant difference as the season progresses.
Allergen avoidance is a key strategy for many, including Dr. Michael Yong, an otolaryngologist at Pacific Neuroscience Institute. "I focus a lot on allergen avoidance," he stated, stressing the importance of wearing a mask during peak allergy seasons and refraining from exposure wherever possible.
Dr. Christina Gasbarro, a primary care physician, manages her extensive allergies through daily use of a neti pot, along with a nasal steroid. "During my 'bad' allergy season times — spring and fall — I try my best to use my neti pot daily," she shared. If her symptoms persist, she opts for an antihistamine nasal spray.
Each testimony underscores the significant impact that allergies have on health and daily life. Dr. Andrew Wiznia, working with Northwell's Cohen Children's Physician Partners, shared his success story of overcoming childhood allergies through immunotherapy. "I don't take medicine at all anymore. I'm a real success story," he claimed, highlighting the potential efficacy of sustained treatment options.
As allergy season takes hold, experts are encouraging those affected to take preventive measures and explore various treatment strategies to find relief. With effective management methods available, there's hope for many to enjoy the springtime without suffering from persistent symptoms.
Healthcare workers emphasize the necessity of establishing daily routines that can include practical steps—avoiding allergens by keeping pets out of bedrooms, using a vacuum with a HEPA filter, and starting medications ahead of time to stay one step ahead of allergy symptoms.
As the pollen count rises, all individuals suffering from seasonal allergies are encouraged to consult with healthcare providers for personalized care—whether it's through medication, lifestyle adjustments, or alternative therapies. It is time for everyone battling spring allergies to embrace helpful advice and reclaim the joys of the season!
