Did you know that 15-30% of the population (approximately 50-100 million people) suffer from allergies? Some have seasonal allergies, and many, if not most, can have ongoing allergies with seasonal flare-ups. Tough, right? 

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Allergic rhinitis manifests itself through a spectrum of symptoms, including runny nose, sneezing, coughing, itchy eyes, etc. Allergies can become tedious, and unfortunately, they are everywhere. &They cost us millions of lost school and work days per year, not to mention a pretty penny from our collective pockets in office visits and medications. And unfortunately for us, allergy season is getting longer and more intense, as reported by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. Some, with time, can become more sensitive to allergens, leading to increased sensitivity to other irritants such as tobacco smoke, particulate pollution, or strong scents or perfumes, for example. It is a big problem that is only going to get bigger. So what can we do to make our lives a bit more enjoyable, and help decrease the need to constantly take allergy medications, carry wipes, and avoid common irritants?

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• Avoid triggers. Engaging in outdoor activities during periods of heightened allergenic activity warrants careful consideration. Seasonal allergic responses are frequently exacerbated by exposure to airborne pollen and grasses, whereas perennial or year-round allergies are often attributed to ubiquitous environmental factors such as dust mites, fungal spores, and animal epithelial debris. It is not suggested that individuals entirely abstain from outdoor pursuits; rather, a judicious approach is recommended. Awareness of specific allergenic triggers is important. If you do not know what triggers you are especially sensitive to, consultation with a medical professional is strongly advised to facilitate accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

• Minimize allergen reservoirs. For individuals with chronic allergies, consider reducing the presence of these triggers from within your home. If complete removal is not feasible, implement a rigorous and regular cleaning schedule, particularly focusing on vacuuming and dusting. 

• Maintain Bedding Hygiene. Aim to wash your bedding at least once a week; your skin can harbor allergens, which can then transfer to your sheets, creating a concentrated source of irritants right where you sleep.

• Practice Regular Personal Hygiene. Your skin can harbor allergens, so showering regularly, especially before bed, can help.

• Manage Pet-Related Allergens. Consider restricting pets to designated areas within the home to minimize allergen dispersion.

• Infant and Child Considerations. For households with young children or expectant parents, avoid overly restrictive environments regarding pets and outdoor exposure, as early exposure may contribute to allergy prevention. If applicable and feasible, prioritize breastfeeding over introducing formula or solid foods early. This can help bolster a child's immune system. 

• Maintain a Smoke-Free Environment. Both active and secondhand cigarette smoke can trigger or worsen allergy symptoms. Cigarette smoke contains chemicals that can irritate the respiratory system, leading to coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. This can be mistaken for or worsen allergic reactions. Some studies suggest that exposure to secondhand smoke may increase the risk of developing allergies, especially in children. 

• Nasal Irrigation: Perform nasal irrigation with saline solution to clear nasal passages of pollen and other allergenic particles. Utilize doctor-prescribed saline sprays or prepare a homemade saline solution. Focus irrigation on the anterior nasal cavities, avoiding deep irrigation of the posterior nasal passages.

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Finally, talk to your doctor! We are often able to diagnose allergies based on symptoms alone, and there are several things that can help. Popular over-the-counter medications, medicated nasal sprays, or other medications can be a tremendous second line of defense and help curb symptoms. Talking to your doctor is important to ensure nothing is being overlooked, check if your medications are contributing to your symptoms, and address any other medical causes of your symptoms. Although it is difficult to guarantee 100% relief of allergic symptoms, we can do a lot to help prevent or lessen the sniffles that often affect us.

-By Dr. Vinicius Seidel

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Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for any health concerns.