W. Va. — If you find yourself sneezing or coughing when spring weather hits, you may have seasonal allergies.
Dr. Gabrielle Sakellarides, a family medicine physician at Mon Health Primary Care in Core, said weather changes allow pollen from trees, grasses and weeds to get into the air easier and be inhaled.
Pollen allergies may cause a chronic cough, sneezing, runny nose, itchy or watery eyes or a sore throat.
“Those who have allergies or have symptoms should take the next step and talk to a primary care physician,” said Sakellarides. “Most family practitioners can treat allergies but when the allergies are more severe and resistant to treatment, then they need to go to an ENT (ear, nose and throat) allergy specialist or general allergist/immunologist for further work.”
Sakellarides suggests these tips to keep allergies at bay.
Know the culprits
Most spring allergies are caused by tree pollen, but if allergies continue through late spring into the summer, you may be allergic to grass or weed pollen. Knowing the triggers of your allergies can help in treating them, according to Sakellarides.
Check pollen counts
Staying up-to-date every day on pollen counts can help you prepare for stepping outside. With tree and grass pollen being the common causes of spring allergies, their highest levels are usually in the evening hours. Check local weather reports or use an allergy app to learn current pollen counts.
Keep allergens off
During times of high pollen counts, change your clothes and wash your hair after spending time outside. Sakellarides suggests wearing a mask that covers your mouth and nose while doing outside chores, yard work or mowing.
Shut doors, windows
Although it’s nice to have windows and doors open in the spring, it can allow pollen to enter your home or car. Because dry, hot, windy days make pollen counts higher, it’s best practice to use an air conditioner or fans to cool your home instead of opening windows and doors.
Take medication
Sakellarides suggests using over-the-counter medications for allergy relief, including antihistamines, decongestants and nasal sprays. If allergy symptoms become severe, a doctor will be able to help with stronger medications.
Consider allergy shots
Allergy shots or immunotherapy are other options. These shots expose you to small amounts of the allergen over time, slowly reducing your symptoms. See your doctor for these treatments.
