Living Healthy: Dealing with Seasonal Allergies

Don’t let seasonal allergies get you down!

Seasonal allergies can be really frustrating to deal with throughout the year. Jane Clauss talks to Dr. Rachna Shah, Lead Allergist at Loyola Medicine, about how to manage seasonal allergies. Seasonal allergies can be caused by allergens in the environment like flowers, trees, and different pollens. Microscopic particles are released from weeds, trees, and plants that can lead to itchy eyes, itchy nose, sneezing, and a runny nose. Allergies can lead to sinus infections or asthma and what we’re allergic to can change as we get older. Follow these simple lifestyle changes to maintain seasonal allergies and get relief!

1-Avoid your allergens

The best way to avoid your allergens is to go to the doctor and find out what you are allergic to. Check out the forecast to see if the pollen counts are high that day. Getting a new pet or moving to a new area can also trigger new allergies. Avoid mold and pet dander to help ease allergies.

2-Wear a mask

Wearing a mask can help when pollen counts are high. They can help prevent certain pollens from being inhaled through the nose and mouth. N95 masks are the best to stop particles from coming into the respiratory system.

3-Take an allergy medicine

Over the counter allergy medicines like Claritin or Zyrtec are great for lessening the effects of allergies. They can help prevent symptoms like itchy nose, watery eyes, sneezing, and a runny nose. Some allergies can be severe. Talk to your doctor about an allergy shot if the over the counter medications do not work.

The best way to treat seasonal allergies is to find out what you are allergic to and to try to prevent exposure to those allergens. Follow these three tips to help manage seasonal allergies and talk to your doctor about the best treatment plan.

Jane is a trusted voice when it comes to health, wellness, medicine, and fitness. As the long-time host of Living Healthy TV she’s interviewed the best experts in the world of health and wellness to bring the story to you.