foodconsumer.org: Worst hay fever season is here

Worst hay fever season is here
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admin on 04/21/2010 20:13:00
 
By Rachel Stockton
Allergy sufferers are experiencing one of the worst hay fever seasons in several
years; that’s because the pollen count is through the roof in many areas of
the country, Dr. Phillip Gallagher of Allergy and Asthma Associates of
Northwestern Pennsylvania told NPR recently.  While seasonal allergies are
rarely serious, if untreated, they can lead to secondary infections, such as
sinusitis and bronchitis.
Certainly, there is an abundant supply of over-the-counter medications
available.  Anti-histamines serve to “block” the histamine response the body
has to pollen, mold, and other allergens.  Decongestants, on the other hand,
work by drying up nasal passages, resulting in easier breathing.
In some states, decongestants containing pseudoephedrine are no longer available
without a prescription, due to the role they play in the manufacture of
methamphetamine.  Additionally, in many states where they are still available
over-the-counter, they must be picked up directly from the pharmacist, who keeps
a log of pseudoephedrine purchases (a picture ID is typically required).
Allergy prescriptions have vastly improved over the last few decades, especially
when it comes to nasal sprays, which most primary care physicians are able to
prescribe.   Unlike nasal sprays in the past, these newer options contain a
steroidal component which helps to reduce nasal swelling and stop the endless
cycle of itchy, running sinus passages.
Seasonal allergy ads are very much in abundance; but many times, OTC and
prescription medications are only effective in mild cases.  In addition, they
typically target only the symptoms:  sneezing, itching and watery eyes,
coughing, etc.  For immediate relief, these meds are a good stop gap; however,
the best way to treat allergy symptoms is through some sort of pre-emptive
strike.
Mitigating the Damage
According to the NPR report, there are two ways to keep pollen at bay when you
go outside.  One is to wear a mask; pollen particles are typically fairly large,
so lightweight masks that cover the mouth and nose can keep the vast majority of
particles out of your airways.
If you suffer from allergies but still want some color in your yard, make sure
you choose flowering trees and shrubs.  This may, at first, seem
counterintuitive; but according to Dr. Gallagher, flowering trees are more
highly “evolved” in that they don’t rely on the wind for cross-
pollination.
Even if pollen is the main source of your allergy problems, it’s a good idea,
especially when the pollen is high, to try and reduce the amount of allergens
floating around your home.  According to Dr. Corwin Petty of Champions Family
Medical Clinic in Arkansas, it’s a good idea to regularly vacuum carpets and
furniture regularly, and replace air conditioning filters at least every 6
weeks.  To keep mold and dust mites from settling into pillows, plastic
pillowcases can be purchased at your local bath and linen shop.    Photo credit:
CDC