Spring and Summer Blows In Seasonal Allergies

Spring and Summer Ushers In Seasonal Allergies

Dr. David Edelheit, a ProHealth Physicians family medicine doctor currently located in Coventry with a new office opening in Tolland.

While spring and summer brings on warmer temperatures, longer days and blooming foliage, it can also usher in seasonal allergies. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, more than 50 million Americans experience various types of allergies each year. In fact, according to the AAFA, allergies are among the country’s most common, but overlooked, conditions and allergies are one of the most common health issues affecting children in the U.S.

Some individuals only show allergy symptoms during certain times of the year, such as spring through early summer. They may be suffering from seasonal allergies. According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, tree and plant pollen is the most common culprit this time of year for both adults and children, with ragweed showing up in the fall. The type of allergen can vary in terms of timing and severity depending on the region in which individuals live. Some patients may be reluctant to visit their doctor, especially if their allergy symptoms are mild like a runny nose, but there is relief for annoying allergy symptoms.

Stuffy noses, coughing, and itchy eyes are some of the uncomfortable and common symptoms of allergies, but if left untreated in children, breathing difficulties caused by allergies could also lead to more serious health problems. While there is no cure for allergies, with preventive measures and treatment, adults and children can find ways to lessen or even eliminate bothersome symptoms. Medications for allergy symptoms are safe and effective, and I encourage patients to just come in and as about them.

There are ways to minimize or prevent allergy related symptoms, they include:

· Avoiding known allergens is the best way to prevent allergic reactions.

· Since it’s not always 100 percent possible to avoid all triggering situations, it’s important to develop an allergy action plan.

· Your primary care physician is in a good position to help develop a plan for avoiding your allergens and treating your symptoms when they develop. In certain circumstances, if your allergic condition is more difficult to manage, you may be referred to a doctor who specializes in the treatment of allergies.

· Another step you can take to better prepare for seasonal allergies is to monitor mold and pollen counts, which are typically reported on in weather reports via radio or TV. People will often activate their allergy action plan when pollen or mold counts start to rise.

Depending on the severity of a patient’s symptoms and her or his medical history, treatment by a doctor will vary. That treatment may include:

· Avoidance of triggers;

· Medication, either over the counter or prescription; and/or

· Immunotherapy, when indicated, where gradually increasing amounts of the culprit allergen are given to allow the body to better tolerate it.

Your primary care physician can help you develop a plan to effectively treat your seasonal allergies. In some cases, the services of a specialist in the diagnosis and treatment of allergies may be necessary.

Doctors encourage patients to stay on top of their health and to get back on track to their regular health screenings that they may have avoided due to COVID-19. Check with your health care provider to learn about their enhanced sanitation and safety protocols. There is no need to suffer needlessly during allergy season when the doctor can provide relief from annoying allergy symptoms.