I Love Spring, But…Aaachoo!

If you are like me and millions of other seasonal allergy sufferers, then you would understand the love and hate relationship I share with the spring season.

I am from a southern part of India where we do not have these distinctive seasonal variations.   I inherited my father’s love for gardening (he is a retired horticulturist), so when I first came here, the beauty of the spring season had me enthralled!   Now, it still does, but I find myself struggling to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors during the springtime due to sneezing, itchy watery eyes, headaches and last but not least fatigue.

Avoidance options like keeping the house and car windows closed, taking a bath every night, and avoiding going out on days with high pollen counts are helpful, but of course we cannot live in a bubble and totally eliminate all exposure!

Here are some of the available preventative methods and treatments which can help you to find relief from seasonal allergies: 

Allopathic medications can help with blocking the release of antihistamine in your body.

·         OTC Antihistamines (i.e. Claritin, Zyrtec, etc.) are useful for mild-moderate symptoms, but do have side effects of drowsiness and nasal dryness.

·         Prescription corticosteroid nasal spray, which decreases nasal inflammation, can be used alone or in conjunction with antihistamines.  Please note that this can take 1-2 weeks to be effective and can also cause local irritation and nose bleeds.

·         OTC/Prescription Antihistamine eye drops can be used to combat eye symptoms.  But, note that they can sting and cause a nasty taste in the mouth (yuck - from personal experience!)

For those who would like to avoid medications and try a more natural route, try these natural remedies:

·         1 – 2 teaspoons of local, wild honey daily can help to build up immune response.  It works gradually and would need to be started 2-3 weeks ahead of allergy season.   A word of caution for people with severe allergies/asthma: start in smaller amounts (i.e. ¼ - ½ teaspoon) and gradually increase.  It is not recommended for children younger than 12 months.

·         Vitamins and supplements such as Quercetin (contained in garlic and onions), omega-3 fatty acid (i.e. flaxseed oil), probiotics, Vitamin C, and Zinc are recommended for allergy relief.

·         Neti Pots – a nasal saline rinse – can be used daily to flush out allergens from the nose.  

·         Herbal medications like Butterbur, Nettle leaf (can be used as a tea or tincture), and Bromelain have been shown to be beneficial.  But, before using an herbal supplement, I strongly advise you to consult with one of our naturopathic doctors.  Some of the herbs can have adverse effects and interact with medications.

·         Studies have shown acupuncture to be helpful in lessening allergy symptoms.  We offer acupuncture in Ashburn, Leesburg and the Gainesville offices.  You can also try Community Acupuncture at The Medical Spa at Nova and in Leesburg.

·         Immunotherapy is available in our allergy clinic in Ashburn.  This helps especially for moderate to severe cases and works great for someone who is looking for a long-term solution.

Last but not least, do not forget to exercise regularly and drink plenty of water every day.  Believe it or not, both of these play a great role in avoiding/maintaining seasonal allergies.

Enjoy Spring!

-Posted by Dr. Afzal Rasheed