In his monthly column, Dr. Kent Herbert answers your questions related to health care matters. Simply submit your question to stefaniw@newfalconherald.com. It’s your chance to ask the doc.Those who suffer from allergies often wonder what they can do to alleviate their allergy symptoms and find relief.Allergies are one of the most common medical conditions in the United States, and it is estimated that between 40 and 50 million people, or 20 percent of the population, suffer from allergies. Allergies are the sixth leading cause of chronic disease in the United Sates and account for more than 14 million annual visits to a doctor’s office.Missed work and school are major complications of uncontrolled allergies. It is estimated that absenteeism due to allergies costs U.S. companies about $250 million annually. Allergies affect people of all ages and gender and can lead to other illnesses, such as sinus and upper respiratory infections and chronic fatigue.Allergies are caused when your body overreacts to something that it normally wouldn’t react to. This could be something in the environment, such as pollen; something in your diet, such as milk; or something in your home, such as pet dander. In addition, your body can react to chemicals in laundry soap, makeup, (makeup) foods or any other product that comes in contact with the body. Different reactions cause different symptoms. Some people get itchy and watery eyes, others get runny nose and sinus pressure, and still others get itchy and blotchy skin, such as hives. Some people, unfortunately, have all of these reactions. Kids will sometimes get dark circles under their eyes (called allergic shiners) or they use their palm to push their nose up to stop the itching (called the allergic salute).Allergies are often seasonal, with spring allergies typically caused by tree pollens; summer allergies caused by weeds and grasses; and fall allergies caused by ragweed. In Colorado, many people are exposed to and react to all of these, causing almost year-round allergies.Other common causes of year-round allergies are indoor triggers, such as pet dander and dust mites. Pet dander is the shed skin and protein from any indoor pet, and dust mites are tiny bugs that live off of the shed skin of humans. Both of these are typically found in homes and can be airborne, making them potent triggers for allergies.Treatment of allergies consists of three phases. The first is avoidance of triggers. If the trigger is pet dander, then avoiding close contact with a pet is the first step, as well as washing your pet at least once a week, using a HEPA air filter; and wearing clothing that does not attract dander, such as cotton. Wearing a mask outside could avoid exposure to environmental triggers, as could keeping the windows in your home closed and avoiding the outdoors during high pollen counts.If avoidance does not adequately control allergy symptoms, then medications could be used. Antihistamines, such as Benedryl, are the most common type of allergy medicine and are typically available without having to visit a doctor. Antihistamines are either short acting but sedating, such as Benadryl; or long acting and non-sedating, such as Zyrtec or Claritin. Long-acting antihistamines are generally preferred when allergies are daily, and they typically control the full range of allergy symptoms. In addition, one can use nasal sprays, such as Afrin; or eye drops, such as Visine, in addition to an antihistamine to control focused symptoms. Over-the-counter nasal sprays should be used for no more than three days in a row, however, or they will cause worsened symptoms when they are discontinued.If over-the-counter medications don’t work, see your doctor for prescription medications. Prescription nasal sprays, such as Flonase or Rhinocort, and prescription eye drops work very well and are approved for long-term use. Other oral medications, such as Singulair, are available and can often be used in addition to over-the-counter medications to achieve complete relief of allergy symptoms. If this still does not fully control allergy symptoms, allergy testing and possible allergy shots can usually alleviate symptoms.Whatever the cause, allergies can lead to significant symptoms and missed school and work, and are therefore important to control. There are many treatments available over the counter and many more that are available from your doctor. With allergies, it is important to start simple, with avoidance of triggers and an antihistamine, but stronger treatments are available, if needed, to control the symptoms.Kent S. Herbert, M.D.Board-Certified Family PhysicianFalcon Family Medicine7641 McLaughlin Rd.Falcon, CO 80831(719) 494-2006(719) 494-8448 faxwww.FalconFamilyMedicine.com
