What You Can Do to Relieve Your Allergy Symptoms
Warm weather in northern Nevada means it’s time for trips to the lake, long hikes and family BBQs. But what do you do when a runny nose, itchy, watery eyes, congestion and other sinus conditions from seasonal allergies get in the way of the summer fun?
Unfortunately, as the temperature increases, so do the number of pollens in the air. But you don’t need to continue to suffer. There are many treatments that an Ear, Nose and Throat doctor (ENT) can use to help relieve your allergies.
It’s important to first understand exactly what allergies are. Allergies are the immune system’s reaction to allergic substances in the body. The immune system produces antibodies in reaction to contact with allergens. Symptoms of seasonal allergies commonly include:
- Itchy, watery eyes
- Post-nasal drip
- Nasal and sinus congestion
- Headaches
- Sneezing
- Scratchy throat
- Hives and eczema
- Shortness of breath
On the contrary, some people who experience these symptoms aren’t suffering from allergies at all. Sinus infections, or sinusitis, have many similarities to allergies, making it hard to properly self-diagnose and treat. A sinus infection is caused by bacteria in the sinus cavities. Normally, mucus collecting in the sinuses drains into the nasal passages, but when you have a cold, allergy attack, or irritation by environmental pollutants, your sinuses become inflamed and are unable to drain. To correctly diagnose if you are suffering from allergies or a sinus infection, it is best to be examined by an ENT.
However, if your symptoms are due to allergies, there are many treatments that can help reduce your symptoms and get you back to enjoying summer. Treatments include:
- Allergen avoidance strategies
- Topical and Oral Antihistamines
- Nasal Steroid sprays
- Steroid Shots
- Singulair (Medication)
- Saline sprays
- Allergy shots
- Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) – A treatment where the patient receives a small dose of the allergen under their tongue to boost their tolerance to the substance and reduce symptoms.
The best way to get relief from your seasonal allergies and find the right treatment for you is to see a board-certified otolaryngologist. Our expert care team at Sierra Nevada Ear Nose & Throat is here to help. Call 775.883.7666 to make an appointment today.
