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**By Alicia Wanek**
You can sense it approaching. Your nose becomes congested. Your throat starts to feel dry and scratchy. And then it hits – the dreaded spring allergies. Whether it’s pollen, ragweed, cedar, or other triggers, you know they’re on the way. Perhaps this year, you’ll be prepared to confront them.
According to the Allergy and Asthma Foundation of America, research indicates that around 50 million individuals in the United States suffer from nasal allergies, with allergic rhinitis resulting in as many as 11.1 million visits to doctors each year. Allergies are notably more common in young adults during their teens and early twenties, and then again in their 50s, though the reasons for this pattern remain unclear. While allergies are among the most prevalent health issues, their commonality often leads to them being overlooked. Although there is no cure, symptoms can be managed, and recent advancements have improved the management of seasonal allergies significantly.
**Combination Treatments for Allergy Relief**
Dr. Harry Dorsey, an internist with over four decades of experience in treating allergy symptoms, states, “Sometimes a combination of three medications, along with a sinus rinse, may be needed to manage symptoms. These three drugs operate through different pathways to mediate the allergic response. They typically include an antihistamine, a leukotriene inhibitor (like Singulair), and a nasal steroid spray.” He notes that over-the-counter nasal sprays containing fluticasone propionate (found in Flonase) became available without a prescription in the summer of 2015, providing significant benefits to many patients. For those with severe allergies who spend extended periods outside, like cutting the grass or participating in outdoor events, using a sinus rinse is recommended. These rinses help to wash allergens out of the nasal passages, preventing symptom escalation.
**When to Seek Medical Attention**
What if the runny nose, itchy eyes, and sneezing persist? Dr. Dorsey advises, “If your symptoms are no longer manageable, you should consult a medical professional.” A doctor can prescribe stronger medications or recommend alternating antihistamines every six months, as some patients may develop a tolerance. If symptoms continue, a referral to an allergist might be necessary.
**Consider Other Possible Causes**
It’s also worth noting that your symptoms may not stem from allergies. According to Daphne Lewis, center manager for the Hulen location of Envision Imaging, “Sinusitis (inflammation of the sinuses) is the most common kind of sinus disease. Many of the symptoms overlap with those of seasonal allergies or a typical cold. However, the symptoms of chronic sinusitis can linger for several weeks. We offer high-resolution, state-of-the-art CT (computed tomography) and digital X-rays of the chest and sinuses for accurate diagnosis. We also provide specialized CT scans for ENT specialists conducting navigational surgical procedures, such as Stryker protocols.”
The Stryker navigational protocol represents an exciting innovation in endoscopic sinus surgery. A physician should assess whether radiological procedures are appropriate to uncover the underlying cause of your symptoms.
There was a sign in a local doctor’s office stating, “’I love allergy season,’ said no one ever.” You shouldn’t have to endure discomfort every spring whenever you step outside. The good news is that new options are available to help you cope, as well as to confirm whether your symptoms are indeed caused by allergies. Now, if only they could figure out a remedy for my apparent allergy to mornings…
