What are seasonal allergies and how can they be treated? As residents of West Texas, many of us are all too familiar with seasonal allergy symptoms. Many experience the common symptoms of sneezing, itchy, runny nose, nasal congestion and itchy, watery eyes. As symptoms progress throughout the day, we can also experience fatigue which can impact our day-to-day lives.
Seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR) can often be seen through physical examination. Findings of SAR include swollen tissue inside the nose, dark circles under the eyes, and a crease on the nose from frequent nose wiping.
The number one treatment for SAR is the avoidance of triggers. Unfortunately, this option is unrealistic for most people suffering from allergies. Other treatment options include medicated nasal sprays including corticosteroids which are considered first-line treatment. For more severe symptoms which are not effectively controlled with corticosteroid nasal sprays; antihistamines, Montelukast, and nasal irrigations should be considered.
For people with allergy symptoms not responsive to medications, allergy testing may be recommended. Skin prick testing provides results within 15-20 minutes and is the preferred first-line test for allergies. Serum-specific IgE testing (lab work testing) is another form of allergy testing which can be used in those who skin prick testing cannot be completed. Typically, allergy testing checks for allergies to trees, grasses, weeds, and molds. Testing can also check for allergies to dust mite, cat, dog and cockroach.
Immunotherapy, such as allergy shots or allergy drops, are recommended for people with moderate-to-severe allergies who are not well controlled by other treatment options. Immunotherapy can also be used to decrease the need for long-term medication use. Another benefit is that immunotherapy can help reduce other associated conditions such as asthma and sinus infections. Treatment with allergy shots or drops ranges from 3 to 5 years.
Although West Texas can be a harsh environment to live in, there are several ways to help improve the symptoms of SAR. Knowledge is power. By utilizing the information obtained through allergy testing; one can learn to avoid triggers for allergies in your local area and pick the right treatment option to help improve your quality of life.