Spring Allergy Season

The spring allergy season in the NY Metropolitan area has arrived! 

Don’t be fooled by the small amount of snow still on the ground. The trees have started pollinating!
This super harsh winter has created an outdoor environment which is expected to lead to very high pollen counts this season.

Starting a treatment plan before you have an allergy symptoms can help you to feel healthier this spring. Don’t wait until it’s too late!  Allergy symptoms can include sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, itchy watery eyes, cough, wheezing and skin rashes.

Understanding what triggers your allergies can help you to enjoy the outdoors despite the high levels of pollen. Tree pollen counts will begin to rise with several consistent days of warm weather and grass will begin to pollinate  shortly after that.

There are a number of over the counter medications available to choose from this year including antihistamines, decongestants, nasal steroids and eye drops.  Prescription medications are often needed as well

A visit to an allergist can help you start a treatment plan which will provide symptom control throughout the entire season.

Allergy testing can help determine the right time frames to start and stop your medications.

Helpful tips for this spring season:

• Plan ahead: if your child is going on a class trip or you are going on a family vacation, find out what type of pollen will be high in that area, time your activites accordingly,  and be prepared with medications
  
• Wash your hands after extended periods of time outside even if you have not been directly in contact with trees or plants. We touch our faces and eyes constantly and that makes symptoms worse
  
• Shower at the end of the day so that pollen does not end up in your bed with you!
  
• If you have a pet who spends time outdoors, don’t forget about the pollen that your pet is bringing into the house.
  
• Bathe your pets frequently during the allergy season.
  
• Keep your windows closed to prevent high levels of pollen in your home
  
• If you have plans for an extended outdoor activity when it is windy, rethink your plans!
  
• Moms and Dads: make sure your child’s school has an allergy action plan in place for the spring season.