Looking outside, feeling the changing weather from winter to spring, not wearing ten layers of clothing at this time of year many of us welcome flowers and budding trees with joy. For those who have allergies, however, spring (or fall) may also mean sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes and wheezing.People can develop allergies to anything. An allergic reaction is a complicated process that, very simply, involves the immune system overreacting to something (the allergen). This can be triggered by eating, touching, breathing in, or injecting something containing an allergen. Food, pollen, pets, and latex are a few examples. In a person prone to allergies, this exposure starts a chain of chemical reactions that lead to hives, sneezing, wheezing, etc.
Allergic rhinitis is the medical name for the sniffles, congestion and itchy eyes that are part of the reaction to an allergen (the thing that causes the allergy). This can be caused by indoor allergens (often dust or pet dander), or outdoor allergens (pollen, grass). Of course, first on the mind of allergy victims is: What can I do to prevent this? Avoiding the offending agent is most obvious, but not always simple; pollen and dust are everywhere, and some people have multiple sensitivities that may be difficult to pinpoint. There are some things that can be done to limit problems:
Seasonal (outdoor) allergies:
1. Check the local pollen count which will advise you of the level and peak times to avoid being outdoors. Avoid exercising outdoors during peak times. 2. Shower before going to bed. This keeps the offending material out of your sleeping space. 3. Blow your nose and wash your eyes with water after being outdoors. The nose and eyes are the primary sites of contact for allergies, and this may cut down on the exposure. Using a saline nasal spray to wash out your nose may also help.
Dust allergies usually cause the most problems in the winter, and are triggered by microscopic critters called dust mites (don’t think about it too much they are everywhere!). You can cut down on exposure by: 1. Using zippered, plastic covers on pillows and mattresses 2. Washing bedding in hot water every seven to 10 days. 3. Avoiding (or frequently vacuuming) carpets, upholstered furniture, or objects that collect dust. 4. Don’t smoke. If you do smoke, do not smoke in your bedroom.
As for animal allergies, cats are a frequent source of pet allergies. It is not the fur itself, but a protein in the cat saliva that triggers the allergies. The protein sticks to fur as the cat cleans itself and is transferred by petting or flying fur. People who live with cats can find relief by wiping the cat down with a damp cloth at least twice a week. Wash your hands after petting, and don’t let the cat in your bedroom.
Food allergies usually show up as hives, itchy mouth, eczema, or gastrointestinal problems. Cow’s milk, eggs, peanuts, wheat, soy, fish, shellfish and tree nuts are responsible for up to 90 percent of all food allergies. Eliminating foods to determine the cause is a long (and food-limiting) process, but can provide relief. If you want help with this contact the health center.
Treatment: Along with the above suggestions, non-prescription medications are available as a first-step treatment for allergies:
1. Antihistamines block the allergic response, but do not stop the process. Older anti-histamines that contain diphenhydramine or chlorpheniramine can cause sleepiness; do not drive or drink alcohol if you take these. 2. Newer antihistamines (loratadine or Claritin) are now available without a prescription. This type causes less drowsiness and is taken once daily. 3. Nasalcrom is a nasal spray that prevents the allergic reaction from progressing. It is best started about two weeks before the anticipated allergy season, or immediately before exposure to an animal. As with all medication, read the label directions and warnings.
If allergy symptoms are interfering with your life, talk to your health care provider or make an appointment at the student Health Center. If you have asthma and find you are using a “rescue” inhaler (albuterol) for wheezing more than two to three times a week, you may need a different type of treatment. Call your health care provider or the student Health Center to discuss options that will improve your asthma control and make you more comfortable and able to enjoy the spring weather.