Spring’s budding trees and blooming flowers are a welcome sight after the unusually snowy winter in the northeast. While the sights and smells delight most, there are around 36 million people for which spring means allergy season and the battle against watery eyes, nasal congestion and sinus pain.
“Allergies are triggered by substances called allergens, such as pollen or mold spores,” states Nathan A. Deckard, MD, Director of Rhinology, ENT Allergy and Skull-Base Surgery at Cooper. “Many trees, grasses and weeds contain small and light pollen that is carried by the wind, causing allergy symptoms to flare up as the seasons change.”
If you are hoping to enjoy spring consider some of these tips:
- Do a thorough spring cleaning. Throughout the winter, windows, book shelves and air conditioning vents collect dust and mold that can provoke indoor allergy symptoms.
- Shut windows in your house on days when pollen counts are high. Avoid using windows or fans that may draw pollen inside.
- Minimize outdoor activity when pollen counts are high.
- Take medications at least 30 minutes prior to outdoor activity. If you typically have allergy symptoms during the same season every year, you may want to take your allergy medication on a daily basis to prevent symptoms from occurring.
- If you find over-the-counter medications are not working, it may be time to consult with a medical professional who specializes in inhalant allergies.
To request an appointment with a Cooper physician, click here.