Allergies
affect nearly 1/5 of the American people and are the cause
of several billion office visits annually. The nose is the
most common site affected by allergies. Allergy sufferers
typically note nasal congestion or thin, watery nasal drainage
accompanied by watery, itchy eyes and/or sneezing spells
following exposure to an inhaled allergen. Grasses, trees,
mold, dust and pet dander are some of the most common agents
causing allergy symptoms.
Allergic rhinitis can be difficult to
decipher from a sinus infection. Allergy symptoms typically
last for a more prolonged time and are not associated with
fever or purulent nasal secretions. Allergy symptoms are
often seasonal, with a high incidence in the fall and spring
when increased pollination from weeds, grasses and trees
are noted.
Allergy treatment generally involves avoidance
of the offending agent. This is often difficult or impossible
with inhaled allergens. Medical treatment with antihistamines
is the most common treatment to lessen the symptoms of allergy
exposure. To be most effective, the medication should be
taken prior to exposure to the allergen. Other treatment
options include nasal steroid sprays which significantly
decrease the nasal swelling and drainage associated with
inhalent allergies.
Occasionally, medications alone are not
effective in controlling allergy symptoms. In these cases,
specific allergy testing is indicated to determine the offending
agent. Based on the test results, allergy shots or immunotherapy
may be prescribed. |
