Spring Allergies

Spring is when people with allergies usually suffer the most. But, how do you distinguish allergies from a  cold?

The symptoms of a cold and allergies are similar. However, colds and allergies differ in two significant respects. A fever is sometimes associated with a cold, but not for those suffering with allergies. The other distinguishing characteristic between colds and allergies is the duration of the symptoms. Colds usually last for 3-7 days, while allergy symptoms may last for an entire season.

What is the best treatment for allergies?
Initially, over-the-counter antihistamines can be tried for relief of allergy symptoms. Your healthcare provider should be consulted if you fail to respond to the use of over-the-counter antihistamines.

In general, what are people most allergic to?
People are most allergic to pollen and dust mites. Springtime allergy symptoms, often called hay fever, affect many people as pollen from trees, grasses, as weeds becomes airborne. Dust mites, relatives of the spider, are microscopic and feed on skin cells shed by people. Typical environments for dust mites are bedding, upholstered furniture, and carpeting.

What other steps can be taken to reduce allergy symptoms?
Allergy symptoms may be reduced by:

• Closing windows and using the air conditioner to decrease the amount of pollen entering the home;
• Minimizing outdoor activity between 5 am and 10 am when pollen counts are the highest
• Vacuuming frequently, and cleaning bedding regularly;
• Removing carpet and upholstered furniture from the home;
• Using pollen-removing air filters and changing them regularly; and
• Keeping car windows closed while traveling.