CHRISTUS Health provides tips to find relief during allergy season

(EAST TEXAS) – Spring has officially begun, bringing warmer weather — and allergy season. CHRISTUS Health is providing tips for relieving pesky allergy symptoms as flowers bloom and trees release pollen.

 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 25% of Americans, or about 80 million people, suffer from seasonal allergies, which range from mild discomfort to severe reactions.

 

“Allergy symptoms can persist year-round depending on where you live,” said Dr. Rita Alumanah, a family medicine physician with CHRISTUS Trinity Clinic. “The key is to take a proactive approach to managing symptoms before they worsen.”

 

Alumanah recommends starting with an antihistamine such as Claritin, Allegra or Zyrtec early in allergy season and rotating between different antihistamines every three months to prevent the immune system from building a tolerance.

 

She also advises that people know their “triggers,” meaning what specific pollens or molds they may be susceptible to. Following the daily forecast and monitoring air quality can help reduce your chances of experiencing an allergy attack.

 

“Try to take as many precautions as possible by using medications, wearing a mask, and even changing your clothes to avoid those particles that stick to fabrics,” she said. “Be very mindful of the conditions before you go outside, especially for children or individuals with any immune deficiencies.”

For milder symptoms, Alumanah said over-the-counter treatments such as nasal corticosteroids, saline rinses, local honey and decongestants can provide relief.

 

Severe symptoms include not being able to breathe or catch your breath, lips and fingers turning blue, and normal medication not being effective. In the event of any of these scenarios, please call 911 or, if possible, visit the closest emergency room.

 

“Everyone has a different tolerance to the changing seasons and what is in the air,” Alumanah said. “They key is to identify what steps you can take that best fit you and your needs.”

 

 

                                                            

 

 

CHRISTUS Health is an international faith-based, not-for-profit health care system based in Irving, Texas, with more than 60 hospitals in Texas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Chile, Colombia and Mexico. CHRISTUS Health is made up of 50,000 Associates providing compassionate and individualized care at more than 600 centers, including community hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities and health ministries. Sponsored by the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word of Houston, Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word of San Antonio and the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth, our mission is to extend the healing ministry of Jesus Christ to every individual we serve. For more information, visit www.christushealth.org