If you suffer from seasonal allergies or an upper respiratory infection, your friends may warn you about the dangers of Afrin addiction. “If you use it once, your body will become dependent on it,” they say. Doctors call this phenomenon “rebound congestion,” or rhinitis medicamentosa, and it is a very real problem. In fact, it could be responsible for up to 9% of visits to allergists and ENT doctors.
Everybody loves summer – unless they have allergies that are exacerbated by pollen, sun or other substances! Then summer is not quite so much fun! In fact, allergies are a problem for about 50 million Americans! You might be surprised to learn that allergies place 6th in the list of chronic conditions in this country and a hefty $18 billion annual amount is spent on care and treatment specific to allergies alone.
Americans often self-medicate with over-the-counter treatments. Go to any pharmacy and you will find aisle after aisle of nasal sprays, eye drops and antihistamines to be taken orally. Decongestants may also be a part of an allergy treatment regimen. Unfortunately, each person’s combination of symptoms may not respond to a single medication and multiple attempts at finding the correct dosage of each that will result in relief from symptoms for a certain amount of time.
People often mistakenly believe that over-the-counter medications can be taken in combination or at their own discretion. Nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, without oversight of a medical professional who is prescribing medications it might turn out to be very dangerous to the health and well-being of the allergy sufferer. Most doctors would say never to take multiple medications at the same time.
In light of this the person who continues to suffer allergic reactions even with medication may ask what else can they do? Well, a visit to the doctor would be the best next step. He or she may suggest a topical medication in combination with something else. To be sure, the physician is better able to create a model for care that will curb the symptoms without placing your health in jeopardy.
Most people do not realize there is the potential for addiction to certain over-the-counter medications as well. Too, some medications may contain a dosage of pain medicine that can cause overdosing if you are not careful.
Remember, over-the-counter medicine to treat allergies has its good and bad points. If you are plagued with itchy eyes, a runny nose or any of the many other symptoms of allergies it is good advice to seek the support of a professional. Even the pharmacist at the drugstore may be able to give you advice.
If you need the help of a professional in the field of allergies the experts at Annapolis Allergy & Asthma. Count on us to help you enjoy your summer.
“What are seasonal allergy symptoms, and how are they different from other allergies? What do I do about it?”
We get this question a lot and want to clear the air for you.
When people have so many symptoms, we understand the need to pinpoint the cause exactly. There’s a tendency to self-diagnose, and even though this article aims to educate, it’s not a substitute for seeking professional advice in person.
Pollen is the big culprit this time of year, as we head into spring.
Symptoms related to seasonal pollen allergies:
● Itchy, watery eyes
● Sneezing
● Headache
● Loss of smell
● Sore throat
● Coughing
● Fatigue
● Itchy, runny nose
● Dark circles under eyes
● Post-nasal drip
● Snoring
Sometimes people are bothered by other allergens and don’t realize it. They may even be dangerous. They can lead to long-term health issues, such as chronic sleep problems, decreased cognitive functioning, infections, inflammation, and mood disorders.
Symptoms related to other possible allergens (not seasonal):
● Depression
● Trouble sleeping
● Chronic fatigue
● Problems concentrating
● Upper respiratory infection
● Sinus infection
● Inability to exercise for long periods
● Asthma
If not properly treated, these misdiagnosed allergies and issues can tax an already stressed immune system. If you’re not positive whether your allergies are seasonal or not, Annapolis Allergy & Asthma can help you. Regardless of the allergy, we’ll properly diagnose and treat your symptoms.
Fast facts about pollen (seasonal allergen):
● Dry, windy conditions kick pollen around more and make allergies worse
● Rain calms down the pollen levels
● Pollen levels are typically highest in the mornings
● If winter is mild, trees tend to pollinate earlier, so allergy season starts earlier
● A late freeze will make pollination happen later and delay the season
Have you or a family member been suffering from symptoms and aren’t sure what to do? We know what it’s like – you wake up in the morning and begin sneezing with your . nose stopped up. You have to go to work, spend time with your family, and fulfill all your obligations, all while your symptoms are driving you nuts. You’d really love to get some more sleep.
Go to https://annapolisallergy.com/scheduling/ to begin the scheduling process to see us at Annapolis Allergy & Asthma. Don’t wait to book and risk having to wait longer as allergy season kicks in. Call us now at (410) 573-1600.